Saturday, September 26, 2026

Avoiding difficult conversations often leads to more harm than good. But when we use Jesus' teachings as an example of how to approach confrontation in a healthy way, we can take a stance that refuses to let hurt and hard feelings shape our relationship.

John 21:17
A third time he asked him, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.”

In this conversation between Jesus and Peter, Jesus gently reminds Peter that the past cannot be changed, but the future is still open.

Instead of focusing on Peter’s betrayal and responding with anger or hurt, Jesus chooses compassion and offers Peter a path to restoration. By confronting Peter in love, Jesus empowers him to move forward and embrace the purpose he has for him.

When we follow this approach and address issues in our relationships clearly, and without hostility, we can choose restoration over revenge, too.

These conversations may feel uncomfortable, but when handled with humility and love, they can actually deepen trust and heal broken relationships.

Is there a conversation you've been avoiding out of fear? What would it look like to approach it with the gentleness and clarity Jesus calls us to?

As you reflect today, take a few moments to pause and listen to, or read, the guided prayer below. Let it help you release what’s behind and open your heart to how God might be inviting you to move forward.

Guided Prayer:
Heavenly Father, you tell us in your word your desire is we love each other. And as you know, sometimes this is challenging. With you, we don’t have to be afraid of difficult conversations. We trust that you are giving us everything we need to approach them with gentleness and clarity. Help us to hear from you as we reflect on the people we may be putting off conversations with. Give us the name of that person, right now. (Pause for a name.)

Show us what we need to release to you, what we need to address, and wisdom to know the difference. If a conversation needs to happen, then Lord, show us the real issue. Strip away the surface level tension, and help us see what’s underneath. Show us where we need to own something, or where I still have hurt.

What do I need to say to them, God? Big or small, I take a moment to listen for the words you want me to use. (Pause.)

God, will you remove the anger and anxiousness, the things that are not of you from my heart, and give me the compassionate courage to have the conversation?

So, now I surrender any unhelpful thoughts, emotions, or fears to you. We release the “what ifs” to you, and we trust in our timing as you help us to walk into these moments with your heart. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Ephesians 4:15
Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 

Written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content at CedarCreek Church.