This morning as I was reading Paul’s letter to the Galatians I reflected on Paul’s leadership style as recorded in 2:11, "But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned."  This is the apostle Paul – he’s the one who wrote the great treatise on love in 1 Corinthians 13.  Cephas is another name for the apostle Peter who was part of the inner circle  of Jesus’ disciples.  The word "opposed" is a strong word which literally means to set one’s self against someone or something.  It is translated to resist or oppose and it was the word Paul used as he was describing our need to stand strong in spiritual warfare.  Paul had the courage to oppose Peter to his face!

Confronting isn’t easy but it’s necessary.  All of us may lose perspective at times and we need the input of other people to help get us back on track.  I’m so thankful for the people in my life who have lovingly confronted me to bring me back onto the right path.  What if you went to your doctor and your doctor found a serious condition – would you want to know?  It’s not easy to hear bad news but it’s necessary. 

Years ago one of my mentors shared this wisdom from Solomon, "Deliver those who are being taken away to death, And those who are staggering to slaughter, Oh hold them back.  If you say, ‘See, we did not know this,’ Does He not consider it who weighs the hearts? And does He not know it who keeps your soul? And will He not render to man according to his work?"  (Proverbs 24:11-12)  This is a significant responsibility we have as disciples of Jesus.  Is there someone who has been speaking truth into your life that you need to carefully listen to?  Is there someone you know who needs to hear a word of correction from you?  It’s not easy but it’s necessary.