June 13
Speaking the
Truth in Love
Ephesians 4:15-16
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. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Daily Steps
Relational peace is often destroyed by choosing between honesty (truth) and harmony (love). This passage provides the new believer with the formula for achieving both: speaking the truth in love is the means by which the Church matures and finds lasting peace.
The peace in this balance is found in maturity:
The Essential Balance: The command demands both honesty and compassion. "Speaking the truth" requires courage to address sin or falsehood; "in love" requires gentleness, patience, and a genuine desire for the other person's good (The Greatest Gift, Day 162). Compromising either element destroys peace.
The Goal of Maturity: When the Church practices this difficult balance, the result is maturity. The Body of Christ grows and builds itself up in love, becoming more like its Head, Christ. Peace is a byproduct of this spiritual growth.
The Result is Unity and Function: The image of the Body being "joined and held together by every supporting ligament" shows that healthy communication is what makes the Church function. When every member does its work by communicating truthfully and lovingly, the whole structure enjoys stability and unity (Day 161).
Your church peace is secured by mature communication. By refusing to choose between truth and love, you ensure the Church’s growth and your own peaceful participation in the fellowship.
Reflective Question
Is there a difficult conversation you need to have with another believer? Are you currently avoiding it (neglecting truth) or planning to speak harshly (neglecting love)? How can you commit to speaking the truth in love this week to promote maturity and peace?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to either hold back truth in fear or speak truth without love. I pray for the wisdom and courage to obey Your command: speaking the truth in love.
Help me to contribute to the maturity of the Body today, so that our communication is always a supporting ligament that builds unity and peace in Your Church. Amen.
