Daily Devotion: Speak the Truth Out of Love

Scripture:
Ephesians 4: 1-16

Main Verse:
Ephesians 4: 15
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.

Observation:
As Christians, our goal is to become more like Jesus everyday. That is why in verse 1 of Ephesians 4, Paul urges every believer to "live a life worthy of the calling" we have received. Humility, gentleness, patience, love, and unity are some of the virtues that were mentioned in verses 2-3. We were also given gifts that would help us attain maturity as Christians. For those who were given the gifts to become apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers, they are reminded to speak the truth in love, growing and building up one another in love.

Application:
Every believer is an encourager. When a brother or sister in Christ lives a wayward life, we should have the courage to speak the truth to him or her. But, when we speak the truth, we must do it out of love. When we are being brutally honest, the person would feel even more discouraged, but when the person feels that we are trying to correct him or her out of love, they would be able to respond in a more positive way. Let us be a source of hope and inspiration to our brothers and sisters.

Let me end with a quote I read from an unknown author.

"Today will never come again. Be a blessing. Be a friend. Encourage someone. Take time to care. Let your words heal and not wound.”

Prayer:
Lord, forgive me if I have hurt someone intentionally or unintentionally with my words. May I be able to encourage others who need encouragement, and may I be able to speak the truth out of love at all times. May others feel in me the love that only comes from you. In Jesus name I pray. AMEN.