Boldness and Love (Colossians 4:5-6)

Today's scripture: Colossians 4:5-6

I love how God sometimes brings things together. During my quiet time this morning, I read today's Our Daily Bread devotional, and it quoted William Carey, a vibrant missionary for God to India in the 1800s: "Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God" (emphasis mine). He devoted his life to share the truth boldly, but with genuine love.

Then the Bible study I'm doing with my small group dealt with how bold Peter and John were in Acts 3-4. No matter what obstacles they faced, they couldn't "stop speaking about the things" they saw and heard (4:20). They were bold, yes, but they spoke to unbelievers with grace and truth.

During my prayer time, I remembered how Jesus spoke with unbelievers and seekers. He was always loving and gracious. The Samaritan woman. Nicodemus. Zaccheus. The throngs that would surround Him when He spoke.

The only time He showed righteous anger was when He was dealing with religious hypocrites. Then all bets were off. But as long as the person with whom He was speaking showed a genuine desire to know His truth, He answered questions with all the love He had for them.

I've been praying for boldness to share truth for quite a while now, and God answers this prayer bit by bit. I'm reminded, though, of how Peter, John, and William Carey were bold, yet loving. And how my Lord was exactly the same.

Be bold to tell truth, but temper it with love and grace.