Avoiding the Greatest Controversy

The only controversy I really want to avoid is having to face my Maker at the end of time for controversy I avoided-- for failing to speak the truth with love,

because I was more concerned about what people thought,

because I was afraid,

because I didn't want to stand out,

because I didn't want to be ridiculed or persecuted,

because I wanted a path of comfort and ease,

because I'm aware of my own shortcomings and sin,

because I didn't want to be controversial...

and said or did nothing.

And I imagine this horrific controversy culminating in being confronted by those who didn't make it, who look me in the eye and say, "You had the truth... you could have stood in the way... you could have made the difference. Why didn't you?"

Were you there when they crucified my LORD?

Sometimes it causes me to tremble.

If you're uncomfortable, speak the truth in love anyways.

If you're fearful, speak the truth in love anyways.

If you're awkward, speak the truth in love anyways.

If you don't have the words, speak the truth in love anyways.

If you're a pathetic sinner, speak the truth in love anyways.

If you have a million excuses not to, speak the truth in love anyways.

"For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God." 2 Tim. 1:6-8