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“The Balancing of Love and Truth”

Thoughts for Today:

Many churches today attempt to compete with the media for the attention of the public. Some have even gone so far as to use public relations firms or technology consultants, all in an effort to reach an unsaved world with the same tools Satan uses for bondage. While there is considerable value in these efforts in the areas of entertainment and technology, we will never be able to win the fickle attention of the world for longer than a few moments. Why? Because the world will always come up with some new way to out-glitz or out-hype any of our efforts.

So the answer to reaching people with the Gospel of Jesus is not bigger buildings, grander and more elaborate sound systems, or even advanced web designs providing greater functionality. The answer is in our message. It is the responsibility and privilege of everyone in the church -- whether junior high or college students, married or single, high school or senior citizens -- to communicate something that will never be heard anywhere else: love and truth. Only the church can say, "We'll tell you the truth and we will do so with love. Unlike the world, we're not here to sell you something or exploit you. In Jesus' name we are here to love you."

The world is in desperate need of both love and truth. Paul told the Corinthian church the truth, but he did so with love. Paul didn't sugar-coat the message, he told them plainly, they were on the wrong path and if they didn't alter their course, there would be significant consequences. Yet, with his deep love for them he also encouraged.

Questions to Ponder:

It seems as if most people get one or the other right. We either are so consumed with telling people the truth we forget to love them. Or we become so involved in loving others, we ignore the truth regarding the consequences of sin. Clearly we need balance between both love and truth. Have you focused too much attention on one aspect of the message of Jesus while ignoring the other?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.