“Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 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.” – Ephesians 4:15-16
There is so much power in love. Would you be more likely to leave your sin if someone told you how wrong and messed up you are? What if, instead, someone who had loved you well and was close to you explained that they cared for you and wanted you to be happier and safer, that they aren’t mad at you but that they want to help you grow to be a stronger and healthier person? The latter comes from a place of genuine concern, authentic love and a desire for one to be well. It does not come from a prideful place of wanting to convict others and show how right you are. Before we try to speak truth or convict someone, we must first love and show it in our actions. Conviction and truth spoken in deep love is what truly transforms and heals souls. Just look at the cross and the impact Christ’s sacrificial love has on us.
It’s important to also recognize that some people don’t like the cycle of sin they’re in, but are stuck, blinded and being tempted and attacked by the enemy. So, to respond in more hate, aggression and persecution is no way to help someone. Responding in grace, in loving actions and true godliness is helpful.
People need love and truth together. Loving someone and idly watching them live in a sin that is hurting them is not loving. Telling someone they’re living in sin while not being loving is not helpful either. But when we speak the truth in love, true transformation can happen.
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