Speaking the Truth
Friday, May 13
Speaking the Truth
Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Ephesians 4:15
Confrontation is not something that I find easy. It is a delicate operation. You have to find the right words to say so that your message gets across. That’s why it is crucial to find the right approach and the right words for the job. Those who are skilled at confrontation have a great variety of approaches and words and know when and how to use the appropriate one.
Confrontation is not always the right course. Not every critic has to be confronted. Not every wrong statement needs to be refuted. But we are encouraged to admire or emulate the skill of those who know when to confront and are good at confronting in a loving way. They have learned how to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).
When confrontation is necessary, how should you go about it? Ephesians 4:15 gives us the answer. Speak the truth in love so that we all grow from the situation. Paul’s exhortation is designed to build up and encourage the body of believers—not tear it down. Both truth and love should lead us to connection with God and others. Ultimately, the outcome belongs in God’s hands. It is not up to us to make things happen our way (Proverbs 3:5-6). Speaking the truth in love is powerful when used the way God designed it.
Prayer for today: Loving Father, thank You for the many things that I continue to learn each day I decide to spend time with You. You are never too far from me. How easy it is to wish to be free from the trials and tribulations in life, and how important it is to understand even in these moments I can find rest in the arms of the Savior. Thank You that by faith in Him I have rest for my soul, even when I am surrounded by the chaos of this world. Thank You for all that Jesus has done for me so that I may have forgiveness of my sin. Amen