“Speaking the truth in love” is often viewed as a way to say something difficult in a gentle way. But it’s more.

This Bible verse is actually part of a bigger picture instructing us to be gracious, patient, mature, more Christ-like. Truth and love are important, but massively difficult to balance. For example, politicians share “truth” with a spin. We’re very good at spotting this…

..in other people.

Ever complain of a “grumpy” co-worker? (Because I’m always delightful.) Down play your child’s behavior because of “the wrong crowd?” Ever tell the cop you were “just going with the flow of traffic?”

Okay. I’ll let up.

Truth? We all fall short. Love? God is love. God is truth. We aspire to be like Him. If it were easy, we’d all do it. Our nature is to defend ourselves and find fault in others. It’s why grace is such a great idea! Not just for us.

But for others, too.

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…”