Devotionals

Language of the Kingdom

by Jennifer Woodley 
10/28/20
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‘So then, putting away falsehood, let all of us speak the truth to our neighbors, for we are members of one another.’ Ephesians 4:25 (NRSV)

When we choose to lie, we are not seeking first Kingdom ways, but rather seeking first the Kingdom of self. We lie because we want to get what we want or to avoid something we don’t want. Lying is about pleasing ourselves – but always at the expense of losing our integrity and credibility as God’s Kingdom people.

What does it profit if we get what we want, but lose our soul in the process? Jesus said that when we live in the Kingdom, we must tell the truth in all circumstances. God’s Kingdom doesn’t operate on deception. We are to become Kingdom people who naturally tell the truth. Do this consistently and we’ll soon become known as those whose words can be trusted and people who can be depended upon.

Kingdom people are led by the Spirit of truth. And the Spirit does not lead us to lie. Consequently when we lie, we are not being led by the Spirit, but our own selfish desire to have what we want. Only when we commit to improving our speech will we be communicating the language of the Kingdom. The paradox of always being honest is that by telling the truth, we do not seem foolish, but will be considered genuine, which is a lot more important than striving for our own way.

When we know who we are (people in whom Christ dwells) and where we live (in the Kingdom of God) we are more able to be straightforward, simple, clear and honest.

'Father forgive me for trying to impress others or elevate my own position through the falsehoods that I have spoken. Help me to remember that in you, I have everything I need and that this is enough. Show me how to speak clearly and honestly to those I meet today. Thank you.'