Scripture Reading
Ephesians 4:15
Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.
Reflection
Truth without love becomes cruelty; love without truth becomes flattery. Paul binds them inseparably together as the path of spiritual maturity. Speaking the truth in love is one of the most demanding callings in community life — it requires the courage to say the difficult thing and the tenderness to say it in a way that builds up rather than destroys. The goal is always growth toward Christ. Before you speak a hard truth today, ask: am I doing this in love, for their growth?
Prayer for Today
Dear God, Thank you that you see us right where we are, in the midst of our pain and struggle, in the middle of our desert land. Thank you that you have not forgotten us and never will. Forgive us for not trusting you, for doubting your goodness, or not believing you're really there. We choose to set our eyes on you today. We choose joy and peace when the whispered lies come and say that we should have no joy or peace. Thank you that you care for us and your love over us is so great.
We confess our need for you. Fill us fresh with your Spirit, renew our hearts and minds in your truth. We ask for your hope and comfort to continue to heal our hearts where they've been broken. Give us the courage to face another day, knowing that with you before us and behind us, we have nothing to fear. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
We confess our need for you. Fill us fresh with your Spirit, renew our hearts and minds in your truth. We ask for your hope and comfort to continue to heal our hearts where they've been broken. Give us the courage to face another day, knowing that with you before us and behind us, we have nothing to fear. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Amen.