“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the slight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ” (Ephesians 4:15-16).

Allison was a very beautiful young lady. On the outside she appeared very friendly and careful of every detail in her appearance. However, those who got to know Allison knew that she had a very deep seated mean streak. She often was hurtful in her words. Often if she could find something unkind to say, she seemed to delight in saying it. Several of her friends confronted her about her cruelty. Rather than being humbled by their confrontation, she replied, “I simply was telling the truth.” Never are we to speak the truth in meanness. Never are we to speak the truth with hatefulness. Always we are to speak the truth in love. It is the mark of being a Christian who is maturing in his or her walk with the Lord.

For today: I need to remember that it is important not only to speak the truth but also to speak the truth in love.