Coaching: Speak Truth Directly

My friend Brian Wintersteen shared this quote from Dietrich Bonhoefferwith me recently and related it to our need as Christian coaches to speak the truth directly in coaching conversations. We owe that to the person we are coaching. 

In fact, we owe that to all Christians - to speak the truth candidly and directly.

When Christians live together, at some time and in some way it must come to the point that one Christian personally declares God's Word and will to another. It is inconceivable that the things that are most important to each individual should be discussed with one another. It is un-Christian when one person knowingly denies another this decisive service. If we cannot bring ourselves to say the necessary word, we will have to ask ourselves whether we are not still seeing other Christians clothed in a human dignity that we think we dare not touch, and thus whether we are not forgetting the most important thing--that they, too, no matter how old or high ranking or distinguished they may be, are still persons like us, sinners crying out for God's grace. They have the same great troubles that we have, and need help, comfort, and forgiveness as we do. The basis on which Christians can speak to one another is that each knows the other as a sinner who, even given all one's human renown, is forlorn and lost if not given help. This does not mean that the others are being disparaged or dishonored. Rather, we are paying them the only real honor a human being has, namely, that as sinners they share in God's grace and glory, that they are children of God. (Bonhoeffer, Life Together)

There is plenty to chew on in this quote. I'm reminded that no one needs the gospel more than I do, and yet, I have a responsibility to bring the gospel truth into coaching conversations with other Christians to help them to see areas in their lives where they need to change, grow and take steps toward maturity. 

I'm beginning to understand this responsibility. I realize that there are things that I need to say more directly, for if I don't tell them, who will?

Today's Missional Challenge: Speak the truth candidly. Be direct. Declare God's will and word to one another as you follow Jesus together. 

Related Posts:
The Power of Coaching
Coaching for Christian Leaders
Seven Benefits of Coaching

If you would like to explore how coaching might benefit your life and ministry, contact me at davedevries.org to set up a "test drive" coaching appointment.