Imagine a simulator session in which the training captain points out a flaw in his or her student’s flying technique while simultaneously admitting they have their own challenges being proficient in that area. Such humility may be rare, but if manifest it would likely lead to much more effective training. Humility leads to many good things.
Sometimes the best way to start such a conversation about someone’s faults is to admit that we are no better than the other person in that area of sin or some other equally bad kind. This can disarm the defensiveness that is often the product of an exhortation from someone that is without humility.
Love alone must be what compels us to confront evil in others. Part of loving someone is identifying with them.
In admitting we are not qualified to be anyone else’s judge we love that person and often earn the right to be heard. Then the Holy Spirit can move, and real repentance can become a reality for them, and us.
“Before his downfall a man’s heart is proud, but humility comes before honor.” -Proverbs 18:12 (NIV)
