On the other hand, the Apostle clearly cautions that withholding the truth about what we see as harmful to others in their spiritual journey or as harmful to the community is immature and potentially dangerous. Identifying whatever is spiritually harmful to us is critical to our healing process. Often, we could discover the truth sooner if it came through the honest feedback of our spiritual friends. This truth often is painful and difficult to receive, but without it we are walking in darkness that perpetuates harm to us and to others. Giving and receiving honest feedback, spoken in loving concern, is one of the most difficult, yet helpful, skills to be a healing presence in our community.
Some people try to offer feedback without regard to the first two steps.
When the truth about what may be limiting our capacity to experience God is spoken in anger or disgust, we are rarely able to hear that either God or that person is for us or wants the best for us. At the same time, a willingness to share feedback and concern in love is not the same as having accurate discernment. What we see may be more about our blindness than the choices of another. It is enough if they promise to carefully consider the feedback as they accept accountability to nurture their capacity to experience God. You can be a healing presence in your community if you are willing to use these three steps to share your heart.