Real Hope: Difficult ConversationsSample

Learn From The Master

As Christ followers, is it okay that we don’t have all the answers? 

At times I find that people tend to give simple and trivial answers to complex and complicated issues. These answers are unhelpful at best and damaging at worst. As bearers of light, we are needed in the marketplace and the town square to bring divine and well thought through solutions to a hurting and needy world.

Have you found yourself in a family gathering, neighbour’s BBQ, or a child’s birthday party and in the midst of a difficult conversation or topic? What is your natural response? Do you stay silent? Do you share your point of view? Do you debate as to why you are right? 

It may be helpful to move away from the topic and focus on the person. Why have they raised this particular issue at this time and place? Is there something taking place in their world that has triggered this? Often people are deeply searching to be heard, to be noticed, to be loved. On the odd occasion this may not be the case as there are other agendas in play. In these conversations, asking yourself, ‘What do I really want here?’ may help guide your next step. Keep in mind winning the argument is not as important as winning the person.

Jesus was a master at navigating difficult conversations. When the Pharisees presented a woman caught in adultery to Jesus and demanded an answer of Him, He simply bent down and started to write on the ground with His finger. When they continued to press the issue He stood up and said to them, ‘Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her’ (John 8:7b NIV). Jesus’ response to this difficult conversation saved this woman’s life. May your gracious words bring life to those around you.

Written by DRUVI PERERA