1. Encourage Accountability

A clear and honest acknowledgment of responsibility goes a long way. Instead of letting someone hide behind excuses, lovingly point them to the truth. As James 5:12 says, “Simply let your ‘Yes’ be yes, and your ‘No’ be no.” Speak plainly and keep the conversation real—no more sidestepping the issue.

2. Highlight God’s Strength

Excuses often flow from a feeling of inadequacy. Remind them that strength doesn’t come from our own might. Philippians 4:13 declares, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Give them hope that God’s power covers every shortfall.

3. Call for More Than Words

It’s easy to talk a good game, but action is where faith truly shows up. “So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead,” states James 2:17. Encourage them to move from making excuses to making progress.

4. Dispel the Fear Factor

A lot of excuses stem from fear of failure or rejection. Point to 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” Help them see that fear should never derail God’s plan.

5. Stress the Value of Time

Wasting opportunities by making excuses hinders growth. Ephesians 5:16 urges us to be “making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” Show them the urgency of using each moment wisely.

6. Tackle Procrastination Head-On

Delaying responsibilities only adds more burden. Proverbs 6:9–11 warns, “How long will you lie there, O sluggard? … poverty will come upon you like a bandit.” Shake off complacency and take the first step right away.

7. Focus on the Finish Line

When we’re stuck in excuses, we lose sight of the goal. Hebrews 12:1–2 reminds us to “run with endurance the race set out for us” and “fix our eyes on Jesus.” Encourage them to keep their eyes on what truly matters.

8. Shun Self-Deception

Sometimes excuses are just a way of dodging reality. But 1 John 1:8 cautions: “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves.” Prompt them to be honest about their shortcomings and open to transformation.

9. Press On Despite the Past

Even endless excuses about past failures can be left behind. Philippians 3:13–14 encourages, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal.” Show them that the past does not define their future.

10. Celebrate Every Win

Finally, remind them that faithfulness pays off in time. “Let us not grow weary in well doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up,” says Galatians 6:9. Cheer them on, letting them know every faithful step counts.