Caring
2021-12-13Ephesians 4:25 MSG
Many people have no one who loves them enough to tell them the truth. That’s because it’s easier to say nothing when others are messing up. But it’s not the loving thing to do. The Bible says, ‘Giving an honest answer is a sign of true friendship’ (Proverbs 24:26 CEV). Usually we know what needs to be said, but fear keeps us from saying it. However, if you knew the brakes on a car weren’t functioning properly, would you allow a loved one to drive it? In a similar vein, Paul wrote, ‘If someone in your group does something wrong, you who are spiritual should go to that person and gently help make him right again’ (Galatians 6:1 NCV).
More often than not, when an issue arises that might cause tension, it’s glossed over to preserve the peace. We don’t want to ruffle any feathers, so it never gets resolved. Here’s how Paul addresses this: ‘No more pretence. Tell…the truth. In Christ’s body we’re all connected…When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself’ (Ephesians 4:25 MSG).
But let’s be clear – honesty doesn’t give us permission to be rude or hurtful and say whatever we want. Thoughtless words can wound people. ‘Don’t be harsh or impatient with an older man. Talk to him as you would your own father, and to the younger men as your brothers. Reverently honour an older woman as you would your mother, and the younger women as sisters’ (1 Timothy 5:1-2 MSG).
In short, we should be thoughtful and gracious in the way we speak and the words we use. When a difficult issue comes up, caring means getting involved in an honest and loving way.