We should not fear holding one another accountable. Speaking truth in love can hurt sometimes, but it should be done in such a way that it leads to repentance – not anger. Forgiveness goes hand in hand with the rebuke because our desire should be restoration rather than separation.
I do wonder sometimes if we have gotten to the point that people can’t even deal with a friend being honest. I’ve had people tell that unless I agree their stance on a particular matter, I couldn’t possibly care about them. I had to accept their truth in order to truly understand them. Here’s the problem, that’s relativism and if we go down that road there is no truth.
However, I know there is absolute truth, and the Truth is the Word of God. I have the source I need to deal with any differences. Jesus set the example;
“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
Showing grace, not acceptance of a lie, is what I needed to give. I know I can show love to anyone because it’s a choice – and there should be no requirement for that love to be returned. My heart should be to want that person to agree with God, not me. I know if I’m out of agreement with God, I don’t get to enjoy His best for me. I don’t want anyone to be in that position.
Not By Bread Alone 