Speaking the truth with love

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.

Is it possible to be both kind and truthful in our relationships with others?

Can we be both true to ourselves—our thoughts and feelings—and kind at the same time?

Some of us are kind to others and hardly ever criticize. We overlook acts and words that are harmful. When someone else is harsh to us or others, we say “They didn’t really mean it.” No feedback is given and nothing changes.

Some of us criticize others freely and make hurtful comments. Some people call out anything they think is wrong. But the person who is called out has hurt feelings and strikes back, defends themselves, or retreats into silence. Nothing changes.

What is the best way to speak your own point of view when you disagree with others?

Can you do it kindly? Can we be both kind and honest about what is said or done?

Words are very important. They can soothe or inflict harm. They can invite or exclude others.

Jesus gave instruction about this dilemma in our lives. He said, “Treat others as you want to be treated.” Correct them or tell them about a better way in the way you would want someone to talk to you. Suggest a better way without being authoritative, as if you know the truth. You may be wrong in your suggestion but you care enough to have your say.

Some of us learned early on in our families to keep our mouths shut. To say only kind words, to never criticize. But living around injustice means that keeping quiet isn’t a fair option. Keeping quiet is the same as agreeing with all that is said or done. Correcting a wrong word or act won’t get you elected Most Popular Person, but keeping your words inside will make you an imposter.

Relationships matter. They are sustained with kindness and honesty. Consider how you would feel if the words you speak were spoken to you. Say four words: “I see things differently.”

Speak up, but be kind. Keep learning how to speak the truth in love.

Our prayer today:

God, help us to treat others as we want to be treated. Embolden us to speak the truth as we know it with care for how it is received. Amen.

This devotional was written by Kay Shurden and read by Sally Stovall.

Grace for All is a daily devotional podcast produced by the members of the congregation of First United Methodist Church in Maryville, Tennessee. With these devotionals, we want to remind listeners on a daily basis of the love and grace that God extends to all human beings, no matter their location, status, or condition in life.

If you would like to respond to these devotionals in any way, we would enjoy hearing from you. Our email address is: podcasts@1stchurch.org.

First United Methodist Church is a lively, spirit-filled congregation whose goal is to spread the message of love and grace into our community and throughout the world. We are located on the web at https://1stchurch.org/.