Courageous Conversations

Day Seventy-Nine

Courageous Conversations (Read Proverbs 28:22-28)

²² Greedy people try to get rich quick
    but don’t realize they’re headed for poverty.

²³ In the end, people appreciate honest criticism
    far more than flattery.

²⁴ Anyone who steals from his father and mother
    and says, “What’s wrong with that?”
    is no better than a murderer.

²⁵ Greed causes fighting;
    trusting the Lord leads to prosperity.

²⁶ Those who trust their own insight are foolish,
    but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe.

²⁷ Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing,
    but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed.

²⁸ When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding.
    When the wicked meet disaster, the godly flourish.

Reflection:

Honest conversations can be uncomfortable. Avoiding conflict, telling someone what they want to hear, or glossing over the truth with kind words is more effortless. But Proverbs reminds us that true love doesn’t shy away from the tough talk. Real love dares to correct, even when it’s hard.

We are most effective in these conversations when someone invites us to speak the truth. When we force ourselves to critique another, it’s usually unwelcome and poorly received and widens the separation in our relationship with that person. It’s wise to ask permission to gain a seat and earn their spiritual consent to speak freely and honestly.

“You’re not learning anything unless you’re having the difficult conversations.” ~ Gwyneth Paltrow

When we care enough to offer correction, we allow someone to grow. This verse speaks to the deep appreciation that eventually comes from receiving honest feedback. Though flattery feels good at the moment, it doesn’t lead to growth. It simply soothes egos and masks more profound issues. On the other hand, Godly criticism aims for the heart and helps us see where change is needed.

“The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism.” ~ Norman Vincent Peale

Jesus models this for us. He spoke truth in love, offering both grace and correction. He never shied away from addressing sin but always with the goal of restoration. In the same way, when we approach others with honest words, guided by love and the Holy Spirit, we become instruments of healing and growth in their lives.

“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back” (Matthew 18:15).

Courageous conversations are acts of love. They may sting at first, but they lead to long-lasting change. As we follow Jesus’ example, let’s ask Him for the wisdom and courage to speak truth with grace, knowing that true love isn’t afraid to correct.

Reflection Questions:

• When have you received honest criticism that helped you grow? How did you respond at the time?
• Is there someone in your life to whom you’ve been hesitant to speak the truth? What’s holding you back from having that conversation?
• How can you ensure your correction comes from a place of love and not judgment?

Next Steps:

• Pray for wisdom and courage – Ask God to give you the wisdom to know when and how to speak truth in love. Ask for the courage to have the hard conversations that lead to growth.
• Examine your heart – Before speaking, check your motives. Ensure that your desire to offer correction comes from love and a genuine concern for the other person’s well-being, not from pride or frustration.
• Choose your words carefully – Plan what you want to say with love and grace. Focus on being constructive rather than critical. Offer your correction to encourage growth rather than tear someone down.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for loving me enough to speak truth into my life. I ask for the same courage and love to guide my conversations with others. Give me wisdom to know when and how to offer correction, and help me to do so with a heart full of grace and compassion.

Guard my words, Lord, so that they bring healing, not harm. Please help me to listen well and be humble enough to receive corrections when needed. I trust You to work through these conversations to bring growth, understanding, and restoration.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May God bless your hearing, understanding, and application of today’s wisdom.