Shine Like Stars: Devotions From Time of Graceনমুনা

Speech That Shines: God's stars speak the truth in love

Okay, so I'm going to use my mouth today to build up, not tear down. But what if I see things that aren't right? What if a woman I know is flirting with a married man? What if my niece and "nephew" are living together without marriage? What if my coworker is stealing from the company? What if my friend is cheating on his wife? Should I tell my friends about their teens' drug use?

God's stars speak the truth in love--not to puff themselves up, not to feel superior, but to rescue precious human beings from paths of destruction. St. James writes, "My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins" (James 5:19,20).

We are too often silent because we don't want to "judge." We are all too aware of our own failings and don't want to be hypocrites. We don't want to risk a friendship or risk rejection.

Speak up anyway. As long as your words of correction are drawn from God's words and come from a loving heart, they can only heal, not destroy. Speak up. If people are saved because of you, they will have an eternity in heaven to get over their irritation.