Speak the Truth, but with Love: Marriage Devotional Week 2
Scripture
But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.
EPHESIANS 4:15 (NRSVCE)Reflection
Truth and love
Honesty is essential in marriage. So is love.
But how can we be honest as well as loving when we’re discussing difficult issues, shortcomings, or offenses with our spouses? Far from easy, right?
Speaking the truth in these matters can stir up conflict, misunderstanding, and hurt. Yet, holding back can leave open wounds that grow more painful over time.
The answer, as always, lies in Christ, who is both Truth and Love.
Speak life, love, and truth into your marriage as you draw on God’s Word.
5 weeks. 5 biblical principles. Get them in your inbox.
The email series includes detailed steps for each week’s Practice as well as printables in an easy-to-save or print format.
No “you v. me“
Scripture tells us that as a Church we are all one body, called to grow together in Christ, to build each other up in love, all while speaking truth.
If this is true of the Church as a whole, how much more true it is of two people who are united with each other and with Christ in sacrament! When we begin seeing our marriages through the lens of oneness in Christ, everything shifts.
It’s no longer “you” versus “me.” It changes to “us,” walking side-by-side, growing together in holiness. We get to be each other’s partner, coach, counselor, and cheerleader as we trek to heaven together.
Truth becomes love
Through this lens, truth spoken gently isn’t about pointing out faults. It’s an act of love, spoken to build each other up. Instead of avoiding conflict, we step into it with compassion. Instead of seeking to win, we seek to uplift and help our spouse grow stronger in Christ.
Does this seem too lofty? Well, most of us struggle with this. But aiming for the things of heaven, that’s our calling.
And the Lord doesn’t leave us to figure it all out on our own. He offers to strengthen us in the Eucharist, in His Word.
These are sources of grace that we need, if we are to transform our marriages into what God designed them to be — stairways to heaven. Yes, this is easier said than done! But don’t give up yet. Let’s look at ways in which we can strive to speak truth in love.
Practice
Right now: Assess where you stand. How do you usually address a difficult conversation? Do you go in ready to prove your point? Do you speak when you are calm or in the heat of the moment? How have recent arguments ended? What could you have changed?
This week: Every day this week, try to speak gently, slowly, and calmly. Every time a thorny situation arises, pray before you speak, check your reasons for what you want to say, and speak with love.
Before you move on: At the end of the week, reflect on how you’ve spoken to your spouse this week. Have your words built up? Have your words reflected your unity in Christ?
Prayer
Jesus, you are both Truth and Love. Help us reflect your character in our marriage. Give us the courage to speak up when needed and to clothe our words in gentleness and love. Soften our hearts so that the words that come out of them strengthen and build rather than wound and tear down. Help us remember that we are one in you. Let every conversation we have, even difficult ones, draw us closer to each other and to you. Amen.
Speak life, love, and truth into your marriage as you draw on God’s Word.
5 weeks. 5 biblical principles. Get them in your inbox.
The email series includes detailed steps for each week’s Practice as well as printables in an easy-to-save or print format.
