Growing in Hopeনমুনা

Speaking the Truth

Yesterday we talked about knowing and growing in the truth of God’s word. We continue with the theme of growing together. We are to grow up, and grow together. Paul teaches that we are to speak “the truth in love”. Often, we don’t want to speak truth to someone because it might hurt their feelings. However, to not tell someone the truth can often be unloving. If someone you know was in danger of walking in front of a car in traffic, wouldn’t you tell them? Of course you would!

Usually, we don’t want to confront our brother or sister in Christ about sin in their lives for fear of hurting them or our relationship with them. In reality, a genuine friend will tell them the truth in a loving way. After all, it is in their best interest. When you or I are the ones who need to be told the “truth in love”, it’s not always easy to accept it. I don’t like to be told I am wrong. However, I cannot change unless I know I need to change.

As you mature spiritually, it will become easier to be told you are wrong. Hopefully, it will be easier to tell others, in a spirit of kindness and love, when they are in the wrong.  As we speak the truth in love, it will help us grow up in all aspects in Christ; both individually and together. 

Remember, love always places the other person’s best interests first. Sometimes love is pointing out a wrong. Sometimes love is forgiving someone who has wronged you. Ultimately, love is not about us; it’s about considering others first. By loving each other and speaking truth to one another, we build up the Body of Christ and grow together in Him.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I know that You love me more than I can even imagine. Help me to have a heart that is willing and ready to receive Your truth and correction when it comes from other people. I also ask that You will give me the wisdom and the boldness to love my brothers and sisters in Christ by speaking truth into their lives! I love You and I want to change so that I can truly be more like Jesus. In His Name, I pray. Amen.