Speak Truth In Love
Devotions with Pastor Jason Lim

"I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, that I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren..." (Romans 9:1-3)

The apostle Paul had a great mind. From a young age, he had learned the Scriptures. He was destined to be a top Pharisee. But Paul made a dramatic U-turn one day. Instead of persecuting the church of Jesus Christ, he now preached for Jesus Christ. He exposed the faults and lies of his own people. 

Although the Jews were offended by Paul's convicting message and labeled him a traitor and enemy, Paul's hard preaching was borne out of a real sincere desire to see his fellow Jews saved. His heart was in constant anguish, sorrow and heaviness for their souls. He even declared his wish to face eternal damnation in exchange for their salvation!

A preacher today must not shy away from tough truths to secure man's approval. He must not succumb to the pressure of speaking sugar-coated messages and think that this is loving. Paul loved his people greatly and never took the road of easy preaching. He gave them the truth as God declared, even when it was not pleasant to the ears. At the same time, whilst we need to present truth uncompromisingly, let us also remember that our motivation must always be compassion and love. Be like Paul, who spoke the truth in love!