Tough Love

“What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline, or shall I come in love and with a gentle spirit?”

1 Corinthians 4:21 (NIV).

I was taught compassion in armored toughness,

Told it would prepare me for the world.

Now, when I’m misunderstood by the ones I want most to understand,

I ready myself for a battle to prove my point and my affection.

How can I learn to lay my arms to rest?

Then I hear a whisper…

“When hostility holds your heart hostage,

Your compassion becomes compromised.

Replace your tough teachings with My love,

Filled with empathy and grace,

To release the tension and gently reinforce you.”