Pastor Stephen Dedman

Category: Encouragement

May 19, 2023

Encouragement

but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬

As believers, we are called to embrace both truth and love. These two components are inseparable when it comes to our relationships with God and with others. Living in a world full of lies, deception, and manipulation, the call to speak the truth in love is a requirement for every believer.

When we speak the truth, we align ourselves with the character of Christ. Jesus proclaimed, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life” (John 14:6). Truth is not merely a concept but the person of Jesus Christ. As followers of Christ, we are called to imitate Him with our words, actions, and attitudes.

However, speaking the truth can sometimes be a challenge. Especially when it involves addressing difficult or sensitive issues. Hence the reason why the apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth in love. Truth without love can become condemning. On the other hand, love without truth can lead to compromise. The combination of the two brings about peace and harmony.

Speaking the truth in love is not about winning arguments or proving our superiority but about nurturing genuine connections and fostering growth in others. When we embrace the call to speak the truth in love, we become examples of Christ.

Do your words, actions and attitude reflect a right fellowship with Christ?

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your Word that guides and instructs me. Help me to embrace the call to speak the truth in love. Fill my heart with Your truth, that my words and actions will reflect Your character.

Practical Instructions

Encouragement

Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭12‬

In the book of Romans, Paul offers practical instructions on how believers should live in light of God’s mercy and grace. Paul encourages and guides us through life’s many ups and downs, reminding us of the eternal hope we have in Christ Jesus.

We will always be faced with challenges, disappointments, and uncertainties. In the midst of these trials, it can be difficult to find joy. However, as followers of Christ, we find joy through the hope that is rooted in the promises of God. Hope anchors us during the storms of life.

Trials and tribulations are going to be part of our journey as believers. As we endure tribulations, we must rely on God’s grace to sustain us, knowing that our faith and character is being shaped through these challenges.

It is through prayer that we connect with God, express our deepest longings, and seek His guidance and provision. In times of blessing, prayer is an overflow of gratitude, and in times of tribulation, prayer is our source of comfort and strength.

As we think on Romans 12:12, let us be inspired to live out these truths in our daily lives. We find joy in the hope we have in Christ, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill His promises. We cultivate patience in the face of tribulations, trusting that God is at work in every situation. And we prioritize a life of prayer by seeking His presence and guidance in every step we take.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the hope I have in Christ Jesus. Help me to rejoice in the assurance of Your faithfulness. Give me strength to be patient when tribulations arise, knowing that You are working all things for my good.

Encountering Others

Encouragement

Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭4‬:‭5‬-‭6‬

Sometimes we encounter people who do not share our same beliefs and values. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, encourages us to be wise in our attitude and actions toward nonbelievers. Let’s reflect on these two verses and discover the wisdom they offer.

Walk in wisdom: As followers of Christ, our actions should reflect His character and love. We are called to be intentional in the way we conduct ourselves, especially when interacting with those who do not share our faith. We must be wise in our actions, showing kindness, compassion, and respect to everyone we encounter.

Make the most of every opportunity: We must strive to make a positive impact on others. Each interaction, whether big or small, can be an opportunity to reflect God’s love and share the hope we have in Christ. We must be alert and prayerful, asking God to open doors for us to share His love and truth.

Let your speech be full of grace: Our words hold tremendous power. They can either build someone up or tear someone down. They can encourage or discourage, bring peace or cause strife. As followers of Christ, we should speak with kindness, empathy, and humility, seeking to bridge gaps and foster unity.

Seasoned with salt: The words we speak should be seasoned with grace, wisdom, and truth. The world needs Christ’s message of redemption and love. We need to be intentional with our words.

As we strive to live out these verses, our ultimate goal is to honor and glorify God in all that we do. By walking in wisdom, making the most of every opportunity, speaking graciously, and seasoning our speech with salt, we can be vessels of God’s love and truth in a world in need.

Pray

Lord, grant me wisdom to interact with those who do not know You. Help me to make the most of every situation to share Your love and truth. Use me as a vessel of Your transformative power to impact others for Your glory.