As believers, we can be extremely passionate about Jesus and the truth of His Word. However, our enthusiasm can often trigger deep-rooted emotions that surface whenever we confront heretical teaching and contend for the truth.
Here are a few tips to help you keep your emotions in check during those challenging times:
Remember the Bottom Line. Chances are, the person you are dealing with is spiritually deceived and needs redemption regardless of how convincing their argument sounds. Keep this reality at the forefront of your emotional state to help you stay calm while presenting the truth.
Do Unto Others. Speak to and treat the person you are confronting the same way you would want someone treating you if you were spiritually deceived and lost. Rude comments, insults, or put-downs do not represent Jesus or the gospel you are presenting.
Stay On Point. Keep the discussion and your comments focused on the doctrinal dispute. This approach helps keep things from sidetracking to other issues that could add frustration and spark an emotionally heated debate or argument.
Being emotionally prepared to handle the inevitable difficulties that arise when you refute false doctrine is as vital as the information you share. Therefore, use wisdom and self-control to keep your intensified emotions subdued while presenting the truth as calmly and factually as possible.
Ultimately, the Holy Spirit is the one who convicts and convinces others of the truth. You are only responsible to share it.
