May 18 True Love

Ephesians 4:15-16 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
 
 IT is often difficult to speak “the truth in love”, isn’t it? If we have the courage to tell someone the truth of their sin, we are often accused of being judgmental, unloving and “stuffing the Bible down my throat”. Why suffer such abuse? Let them live in their sin!
    Yes, these rejections often force us to be quiet, to not even consider speaking the truth in love.  We as individuals and even as the body of the church are unwilling to teach, preach or evangelize the truth because we want to be known as the church that “loves everyone”. We can’t say, “You are a sinner.” in love, can we?
    Actually, we can. And we must. Remember, Paul said, “speaking the truth in love.” He didn’t say, “Avoid or be quiet about the truth in love.” After all, is it unloving to tell a child, “Don’t touch. It’s hot.” “Look both ways before crossing the street.” “Wash your hands before you eat.” “Brush your teeth.” “Say ‘Please’ and ‘Thank you.’”
    Of course, it’s not unloving to instruct children in physical safety, manners and hygiene. These are loving truths that will help children mature into healthy adults if they follow your teaching. You teach them because you love them.
    Do you love someone enough to tell them of their sin and Jesus’ salvation? Do you love them enough to share some Bible verses and to pray with them? Do you love them enough to listen to their heart, then tell them of Jesus’ heart?
     As one body, Jesus’ church, we are to love the truth. We are to love Jesus so much we eagerly tell his truths. We are to love others so much we point them to salvation.
    Speak these words from your heart. Be grateful someone has told you. Be loving in your approach to others. In Jesus’ love we can be loving to those who need his instruction.
 
Prayer: Lord, I love you. I pray I love others enough to tell them, “Jesus saves.” Amen.