Truth Talk
Navigating Truth. Unveiling Justice.
Some conversations stick with you. They challenge you, stretch your convictions, and linger long after. One that’s stamped in my memory happened last year when a friend asked me something like, “Why do you share what God shows you about the church? Couldn’t that be seen as gossip or causing division?”
My first (very human) reaction was, “Heck yeah I’ll cause division—between the sheep and the goats!” Thank God I didn’t say that out loud. That’s Jesus’ job, not mine. But the question hit me deep.
Speaking truth in the church isn’t about proving a point—it’s about holy reverence, love, and accountability. Some call it “tough love,” but it’s still love. Leaders and believers alike must be accountable. If someone preaches righteousness but lives differently, silence becomes complicity. Truth-telling, when done biblically (Matthew 18), isn’t gossip—it’s care. It’s fighting for restoration, not reputation.
But it gets hard when the person you love carries a fragile or narcissistic spirit. Biblical leadership leaves no room for pride, ego, or complacency (1 Tim. 3, Titus 1). Romans 12:3 reminds us to be sober-minded. We’re all growing—becoming more like Jesus (Eph. 4:15)—and that growth requires humility, correction, and accountability (Gal. 6:1-2, Rom. 14:19).
I’ve been in a situation where I brought a concern biblically, but was accused of seeking revenge. That wasn’t my heart. I wasn’t looking for payback—I wanted justice. And yes, there's a difference.
We’re called to trust God’s justice (Romans 12:19), but also to pursue justice here and now (Micah 6:8). Jesus did both—He called out hypocrisy while extending mercy (Matt. 23:23). Proverbs 31:8-9 tells us to speak for the voiceless, to defend the vulnerable—and I once was that.
That conversation helped me realize: I speak up when it’s needed, and I also need to help others see the line between revenge and justice.
Revenge vs. Justice:
Revenge reacts from pain; Justice responds from God’s heart.
Revenge escalates hurt; Justice brings healing.
Revenge is emotional; Justice is Spirit-led.
Revenge punishes; Justice restores.
Revenge is temporary; Justice transforms.
This call to justice runs deep in our family—we even named our firstborn Micah, after the prophet who reminded God’s people that He desires mercy, not empty religion.
Speaking the truth in love isn’t about being a hero—or a villain. I know some might label me the latter (cue maniacal laugh? 😉), but I’m at peace. God knows my heart. He sees what’s unseen and, in time, will reveal the whole truth.
Until then, I’ll keep speaking truth in love, praying for mercy, and doing my best to hear “well done” when I see Jesus face to face.
