Truth and Love

We come to the last two commandments in this weeks catechism

Q12. What does God require in the ninth and tenth commandments?

Ninth, that we do not lie or deceive, but speak the truth in love. Tenth, that we are content, not envying anyone or resenting what God has given them or us.

Some thoughts.

• Truth and love belong together

Oil and water don't mix; truth and love do. Sometimes we think the best thing to do is to spin the truth slightly.  At other times we are tempted just not to say anything.  But such spin and silence is deceiving.  That is not kind.  It is not loving. Sometime we speak the truth, but do so to hurt others.  That is not kind, and it is not loving.  But to withhold the truth, to choose not to tell someone they are wrong in their thinking or behaviour.  To choose not to tell someone the actions they are taking are harmful to themselves or others.  That is not kind.  It is not loving. To speak the truth in love, and to do so in a way that is both wise and gracious is difficult.  We have the best example of one who does so, in every situation, on very occasion in Jesus Christ.  He is the Word, who has come from the Father, full of grace and truth. So if you want to know how to speak the truth in love, begin by listening.  Listen to Jesus.  Pray to him, and ask him to enable to speak the truth in love, at all times, in all circumstances, and at every occasion.

• I'm satisfied in you alone

On Sunday, the group taught us a new song which contains that line. (See the video below).  Such a line poses a dilema - I know that is how I should feel.  Yet I often find my heart wondering and desiring other things.  I covet.  So it is hard to sing that line truthfully! Yet, I do think we can sing this song.  It expresses a longing in our hearts to be satisfied in God alone.   The more we sing, the more we will transform our hearts... so be sure to join in the song.

• This is what God requires

As we come to the end of the 10 commandments, it is good to note how each of the last few questions has been phrased.  They ask, 'What does God require in....' The 10 commandments are not simply advice for a good life.  Nor are they simply a good way to shape a society.  They are God's law.  They are him telling us how he wants us to live.  They express what he requires from us. Can we do it?  The next question explores that very issue. https://youtu.be/RyQ6I72TPps