As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. ... Speak the truth in love, and we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. - Ephesians 4:1-2, 15
Dear Jesus, I have so many people to talk to every day. Some conversations are casual and entertaining, but others are critical as we problem solve together and work at life as a family, as a church, or as a community. While I am conversing, give me the wisdom, humility, and strength to be gentle, humble, truthful, and full of love. In this way, when I talk to others I will not be hurting them or hiding behind self-righteousness or selfish ambition. Give me the moment by moment insight I need to treat everyone with the same respect and love that I want from them when they speak to me. And when they are acting inappropriately, give me a grace oriented love that refuses to be harsh and cold toward them, but rather firm and loving at the same time. I am starting today forgiving everyone. Help me to finish today the same way. AMEN
The love of Christ at work within us elevates every relationship we have making it holy in the sight of God.
Additional Readings: Colossians 4:2-6, 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12