DON'T WALK OVER ANYONE'S FEELINGS

I find it a little upsetting when someone that is supposed to be counselling/comforting a person dealing with a challenge adopts the 'You too' approach. Nine times out of ten, their comments are downright INSENSITIVE. I think I understand what they're trying to do but the approach most often than not wounds the already sad person...

Personally, except I'm led to be HARSH with such a person, I usually speak the truth IN LOVE! If I can't find a loving way to tell them the truth, I keep quiet and spend time to pray for loving words to use in communicating a sometimes bitter truth. 

I like the way The Message translation renders Matthew 20:15-21

" Jesus, knowing they were out to get him, moved on. A lot of people followed him, and he healed them all. He also cautioned them to keep it quiet, following guidelines set down by Isaiah: Look well at my handpicked servant; I love him so much, take such delight in him. I’ve placed my Spirit on him; he’ll decree justice to the nations. But he won’t yell, won’t raise his voice; there’ll be no commotion in the streets. He won’t walk over anyone’s feelings, won’t push you into a corner. Before you know it, his justice will triumph; the mere sound of his name will signal hope, even among far-off unbelievers."

He won't walk over anyone's feelings yet His justice would triumph. So, why is it okay for you to walk over the feelings of those that came to you for comfort?Please tell them the truth; just find a loving way to communicate it. 

May the Lord continually shine His light on our path. 

Hephzibah Oyinda, 2015