”But speaking the truth in love [in all things—both our speech and our lives expressing His truth], let us grow up in all things into Him [following His example] who is the Head—Christ. From Him the whole body [the church, in all its various parts], joined and knitted firmly together by what every joint supplies, when each part is working properly, causes the body to grow and mature, building itself up in [unselfish] love.“
Ephesians 4:15-16 AMP
https://bible.com/bible/1588/eph.4.15-16.AMP
REFLECTION
Once, while I was on a train, a mother rushed to get her son on board and handed him over to a helper, who then pointed at the bewildered son and said, “You are so naughty.” Like it was the son’s fault that the parent was rushing / in error. But what’s worse in that wording is that it was clearly implied that he is naughty, as opposed to naughty behaviour. And, in the latter case, the onus is on the supervising adult to correct such behaviour in a child. If the helper (who is not kin) continues to consistently tell him that he is naughty, it would build a (false) identity, because children tend to believe those assigned to care for them. And if he comes to deeply believe that being naughty is who he actually he is, then he would probably live that out and experience all the awful consequences, which could not only destroy his life, but could also negatively impact others and society at large. The ability and privilege to speak (life or death) is a great gift from God, which should never be taken lightly. The words we use and the way we use them can cause great damage or can cultivate great beauty – in those seemingly hidden mundane moments, as well as when we are in the spotlight. Every word matters – in tone and content – whether heavy or light, serious or humorous. Praise God that while consequences need to be endured, we can (at any age / stage) turn our hearts to our Maker and ponder His Word, which will inform our everyday words. So let’s seek and speak the truth and be builders of love in Christ Jesus.
PRAYER POEM: Your Word
LORD, may the truth of Your Word be heard in the words I speak. Strengthen me from above to seek and speak the truth in love, and point others to You, who is forever faithful and true.
