Why is this? There are times when we really need someone to call us out, correct our actions or words. There was a time that I would avoid confrontation at all costs. As a people pleaser, it was easier to let wrong thinking or bad behavior slide than point it out to someone. This goes along with yesterday’s words on accountability partners.
2 Samuel 19:5-7 (NIV)
“Then Joab went into the house to the king and said, "Today you have humiliated all your men, who have just saved your life and the lives of your sons and daughters and the lives of your wives and concubines. You love those who hate you and hate those who love you. You have made it clear today that the commanders and their men mean nothing to you. I see that you would be pleased if Absalom were alive today and all of us were dead. Now go out and encourage your men. I swear by the LORD that if you don't go out, not a man will be left with you by nightfall. This will be worse for you than all the calamities that have come upon you from your youth till now."
Some might consider dressing someone down like this as “telling them off.” But, in truth, there are days when we all need someone to get in our face and speak truth. It takes courage and it usually requires that someone cares enough to risk the relationship. I might be upset at first, but give me a little while to process your words and I will probably be thankful for your honesty.
Once again, King David needed to hear the words of his military commander, Joab. I am sure it was harder to say than to hear. Joab risked a lot to tell his king how wrong his actions were, and King David heeded the advice and let his people know he was over his mourning and back in control.
Read 2 Samuel 18-19 here
Listen to 2 Samuel 18-19 here
