Non-confrontational is not a good thing...

Why do we make life so complicated? The other week there was a message at church from Matthew 18. The part that my life needed application was verses 15-17. http://www.esvstudybible.org/search?q=Matthew+18:15-17
As I took notes and listened I was very convicted. The past month or two have seen some very trying times for me. There have been bad interactions with people, lies from friends I thought would never lie, and some of the same old crap continued. As I write this I am reminded that I still haven't applied the message. I need to confront some people about things. I did exactly what I shouldn't have. I talked with people about these things when I should have talked with the people involved. I didn't go to my brother and try to resolve things. I am a fear of man person. I hate confrontation. I would rather (and usually do) just take things and then let them fester in myself. This makes for an outwardly peaceful situation. However, it allows sin to grow within me and bitterness to develop. I realized through this message that my point of view has become hardened and expect people to sin against me. I've noticed a trend to avoid people again. This is not good. It hasn't been much work avoiding people for the most part. With work and moving recently I have only seen my tried and true friends who make time regardless. What a gift such friends are! If you want to check out this message go for it! http://www.cornerstonechurchofknoxville.com/media/sermons/the-fathers-pursuing-love/