Today’s Opportunity to Grow Toward Christ-Tactfulness
JOHN SHIRK – With tactfulness in place, we are sensitive to what might be proper or appropriate in dealing with others. We are careful not to be offensive in the way we approach a delicate matter. There are various situations where tactfulness can be extremely helpful in resolving outstanding problems: Mediation in conflict, dealing with a customer complaint, or approaching someone who is making unwise choices with their lives. With tactfulness, we care about the way we deliver the truth so that words of wisdom might fall on receptive hearts. Tactfulness sends a tough message with a tender touch.
There are several examples of this in the Bible. Proverbs 15:4 tells us that a tongue that brings healing is a tree of life. Ephesians 4:15 tells us that spiritual growth happens in relationships when we speak the truth in love. And our witness for Christ to unbelievers is more likely to be heard when we share the reason for our hope with gentleness and respect.
Tactfulness is a character quality that enables us to represent Jesus in the world today.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
Thank you for these verses. I would love to know how to be more tactful. Many times I say nothing because I have been hurt by people who are not tactful and I don’t want to do the same to others. But saying nothing is not working either.