The Taboo of Rebuke

There are many types of love, no doubt. “I am falling in love”, “I’ve fallen out of love”, “He sends shivers down my spine”, “I’d die for you”… the descriptions could go on and on. Every person has a different way of defining it. But my question is: What is AUTHENTIC LOVE? How do you know it is REAL?

I have always loved the verse “better is open rebuke than hidden love,” because to me, the truth is invaluable. If you have ever been the person that has been denied truth, then I am sure you can relate. You don’t know its extreme value until you are the one without it. And because I learned its value early on, I have always been passionate about loving people with truth. Some don’t like that about me. Some think I am harsh or too blunt. But, love me or leave me- you know where I stand.

Since I have become a mother and have walked through the trenches of disciplining and training my beautiful daughter, I have been reminded of this verse over and over again. It has confirmed for me what authentic love is. Authentic love is caring more about the person than the relationship. If Eden really wants to touch the fire on the stove, it would be unloving for me to say “Go for it! I totally support you!” Why? Because I care more about her well-being then the fact that she is going to be mad that I spoke up and stopped her. She may not understand at the time. But she will one day know that it was because of real love.

Do a search for the word “rebuke” in Scripture and you will come up with about 101 references. It is by no mistake that the word rebuke is used so often. That is the model of love that God has given to us. And He expects us to love each other with that same love.

Authentic love is caring more about the person than the relationship. By God's definition, that is real love. That is what I give to those I love- and that is what I expect back in return. My challenge to you is to not be a wuss with your love. Authentic love isn’t always easy or comfortable. But if you truly love them, you will care more about them than the relationship.

“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline.” Revelation 3:19

“Better is open rebuke than hidden love.” Proverbs 27:5