Love Talk

eDevotion

Encouragement for your daily walk with God

When describing love to the Corinthian Christ followers, Paul talked about it both positively and negatively. Paul put rudeness on the negative side. “[It’s] not rude,” he said. This is especially true of how we talk. The Greek word translated “rude” in 1 Corinthians 13:5 means, shameful or disgraceful. 

God calls Christ followers to a higher level of speech. Paul said, “Speak the truth…” And we should. Never back away or back down from truth. But, “Speak the truth…in love” [Ephesians 4:15]. 

Don’t I have the right to speak my mind? Sure, but if you’re going to let it rip, immerse it in love. Don’t I have the right to dominate the conversation and speak condescendingly? Yes, but is it loving to do so? 

Love talk matters in every area of life. While it is within your right to bark at the grocery clerk, snap at your wife, and yell at your kids, is it the loving thing to do? I didn’t think so!

[Love] is not rude. 1 Corinthians 13:5