Prayer for when you need to speak the truth in love
Rachel Adams
Bible Reading:
“In fact, when we speak the truth of love, we grow in Him, our head, in every way, and in Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15
Listen or read:
I left the party feeling sick from the hole in my stomach. The next morning, the belief was still there. As a natural peace director, conflict is extremely uncomfortable for me. But this was not about comfort, it was about submission. I felt the Holy Spirit and urged me to reach out to my host. I didn’t want to. But I knew that if I didn’t, I would feel like an elephant in the room every time I saw people in attendance.
I called with my sweaty palms and an unsteady voice. I shared gently but honestly. I explained that as a Christian, I believed that our lives should look different to the world. Although spiritual growth is a process, we are called to leave behind an old pattern of sin and reflect Christ in both words and deeds. I encouraged us to consider whether our actions that night were consistent with our beliefs and values.
There was a pause at the other end of the line, followed by a graceful response. Ah Relief wiped me out. It was both troublesome and uncomfortable, but necessary. I listened to the spirit of truth (John 16:13) and was grateful for convicting me and giving me the courage to speak.
It’s as hard as we can, but we all need people in our lives who are willing to tell the truth in love. The friends who built us up also call us when we are lost. Those who sharpen us and continue to align us with God’s best for us. No matter how far we are from our journey of faith, we are still vulnerable to temptation, pride, and sin. Even those closest to God, like King David, were not short.
The story of David reminds us of the power of truth spoken in love. After mistreating his powers, committing adultery with Bathsheba and adjusting for the death of his husband, David faced the prophet Nathan. Nathan didn’t approach him in denunciation, but with bold honesty and deep attention. His courageous intervention led David to repent and restoration. Poem sal51 was born from that moment. This is a humble hearted cry of life’s repentance.
Like David, we need friends who speak to our blind spots. And like Nathan, we must be willing to tell the truth no matter how uncomfortable it feels when our minds urge us. The enemy wants us to keep quiet when sin exists. He thrives with secrets, distortions, and fear. But God works through clarity, light, and grace. He invites us to grow into the maturity of Christ, not just for ourselves, but for others.
Do you have Nathan in your life? If not, have it sent to God. And ask him to make you for someone else. Talking the truth about love does not mean that we are harsh or self-righteous. It means that you have enough interest to risk discomfort for someone else’s soul. A faithful friend who speaks in love and belief is a gift of grace.
Let’s pray:
Tell me the truth to my dad, my guide, and me. Planting your truth deep in my heart, I will not be fooled by the lies of the world or the plans of the enemies. It removes the indifference and fear that silences me when you speak to me. Tell me your wisdom and grace to know how to stand up to those I care about with affection and how to stand up. Help me receive the truth with humility when others tell my life. Surround me with those who sharpen me, encourage me, and point me to you. Let my words be seasoned with grace and rooted in love. May my relationship reflect your desire for holiness and mutual growth. And grow in all things into Christ, the truth and love. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Photo Credit: ©GetTyimages/Joaquin Corbalan
The author has come a long way, and love host Rachel Adams, who offers podcasts, hopes to help women achieve their God-given purpose and importance. She and her husband Brian live in Kentucky with their two children, Will and Kate. Her work is featured in Crosswalk, Proverb 31, Parenting Today, and Youversion. Connect with her by visiting Rachaelkadams.com, searching @RachaladamSauthor on social media, and looking for Love, who offers podcasts on your favorite listening platform every Tuesday.
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