Conviction & Compassion

"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)

Your teenager comes home past curfew again, reeking of alcohol. Your heart pounds as you face an impossible choice: ignore it to keep peace, or confront it and risk an explosive argument.

Paul faces something similar when he writes to the Ephesians. He knows they need both truth and love. They need conviction and compassion. "Be imitators of God," he tells them, pointing them to Jesus as the perfect model.

Jesus never separates truth from love. When Jesus encounters the woman at the well, He confronts her sin directly: "You've had five husbands, and the man you're with now isn't your husband." (See John 4:18) That's conviction. But He speaks these words while offering her living water and eternal hope. That's compassion.

Paul calls this "walking in love," and it’s not about sentimental feelings, but action that mirrors Christ’s sacrifice. 

You can live this way, too. When you confront sin, wrap your words in genuine care: "I'm concerned about what I see happening because I love you." When you show compassion, don't enable destructive behavior. Instead, offer help that leads toward healing and growth.

Truth without love becomes harsh judgment. Love without truth enables poor behavior. But when you offer these together, you help create transformation. 

Prayer: Father, thank You for speaking truthfully to me, in love. You always include both. Team me, Lord, to show compassion grounded in Your truth. Give me courage to care enough to confront and wisdom to love well. In Jesus' name, Amen.