Let’s stand strong, stay kind & speak with bold faith.

We have been spending the last few weeks in the book of Proverbs. There is so much wisdom in that book. It's full of simple, concise wisdom! We should read it regularly.

The past few weeks, we have discussed a question that Jerry Bishop challenged us all with when he spoke at our last Seven 24 event: 

How do we speak the truth in love?

"Instead, speaking truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ" Ephesians 4:15

Interestingly, even after Jerry spoke, the questions of how to speak the truth in love continued to resurface in other discussions and conversations.

• How do you speak TRUTH to someone you love and do not want to hurt?

• How do you speak TRUTH when someone you care about is going down the wrong path, and you want to stop the fall?  

• How do you speak TRUTH when you see so many things in the world that counter God's teachings?

• How do we speak the TRUTH of the Bible in a world filled with conflict, harsh judgments, and a sense that "anything goes"?

• When whatever makes you "feel good" seems to rule the day?

These are really hard questions for us. Let's face it: We like to be liked and do not want to offend others. We suspect many of you feel the same way.

However, we know that as Christians, in our pursuit of being the men God created us to be, God desires us to be bearers of HIS truth in the world. He is counting on us to counter the downward spiral culture is taking and bring forward HIS truth.

The truth of the Bible is foundational to our faith. It is not just an expression of "facts" but an expression of our faith and how we live. Truth is our anchor to hold on to in times of uncertainty. Without it, confusion takes over.  

"Jesus said, to him, 'I am the way, and the TRUTH and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me". John 14:16

This verse is very clear. There is no black and white. God and his word ARE THE TRUTH! So, back to the question. How do we reflect in our lives John 14:16?

Writing this Fist Bump, we did not want to pose a question without some reflections on how to approach speaking truth in love.

1. Be Compassionate. Even though we want to speak the truth, we recognize how our words can and will affect others.  Take time to understand the person on the receiving end of your message. Show empathy. Do not just attack!

2. Listen first. When we speak with love, we allow others to feel safe to express themselves.  Take time to LISTEN.

3. Check your timing. Choose the right time to speak the truth to others. Sometimes, our emotions can cloud our ability to communicate; on the other hand, emotions can cloud a person's ability to receive a message. Waiting for the right time can make all the difference in having a meaningful discussion with others.

4. PRAY. Pray for discernment in how and when you speak truth to others. Remember, the Holy Spirit lives in you. Call on the Holy Spirit to guide your discussions.

We are often reminded that we are all on a journey in our faith; we are an ongoing work in process. As we continue our journey together, we pray that we can be the men God created us to be, not shying away from speaking the truth but always keeping LOVE front and center as we lead others closer to Christ.

"Be on your guard; stand firm in your faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in LOVE" 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Have a great week, gents.