Get Rid Of All Malice

I've quoted this line from comedian Brad Stine before, yet once again it stood out... in particular, the second portion of the statement.

"The truth offends. That's it's job. It's how you know you don't have it."

The second half of the statement, relates perfectly this #communitySaturday.

Brad continues this monologue, in that, as Christian, we must not "maliciously offend."

The truth always disrupts.
It will be uncomfortable.
It will be unsettling.
The conversation will be difficult.
Speaking the truth usually is.

There's really nothing that can be done about what the truth is.
The only thing we have control over regarding it, is whether we speak it and how we react when we hear. Thus, there's not much one can do when it offends. The only way it doesn't offend is if it is not spoken (which usually makes matters worse, the longer time passes before it is spoken)

Thus, as Christians, what we must be carefully with, is over-stepping the innate power of offense with the insertion of malice.

Do Christians have their moments? Sure... as does everybody.

But the truth is to be spoken in love. Not in malice. In fact, is this where it splits? Is it possible to maliciously offend and still speak the truth? Certainly you can't be loving and malicious at the same time.

For the time and culture in which we live, the church and people of God, truly need and must seek the favor and grace of God. Political tensions, social expectations, psychological understandings, emotional baggage... all attempts to stand in the way of the super-natural power of the truth, that if not accompanied by the love of Christ and the revelation of God's Word will accomplish little.

How we need's help, this hour, this day and throughout this year.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, that God would help us... in this increasingly difficult climate, to speak the truth in love. Pray a boldness to speak the truth, for it seems the alternative to not offending someone is to simply remain quiet. May God grant to us understanding understanding, to cut through the obstacles that stand in the way of the revelation of God. Pray malice, anger, spite and vindictive spirits would not be found among the people of God. In a time where the assertion of rights are at the forefront, may we be people who would submit ourselves anew to Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives.

That we would glorify God.
That we would reflect Christ.
That truth would reside with us.
God help us be effective communicators
Locally to the communities in which we live
Globally to the world in which we share life.
For the advancement of the cause of Christ.
Peace be with you all.

- PNC

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