MAY 3, Ephesians 4:15

May San had a gloomy look on her face as she entered the kitchen. “Is something wrong, May San?” Mom asked.

“Oh, I am tired of Marie bossing me around!” complained May San. “Sometimes I wish I hadn’t bothered to be her friend!”

“She’s the new girl in your class, right?” asked Mom. “I think it’s nice that you were friendly to her. You should help new kids feel at home.”

“I know,” said May San, “but ever since I befriended her and made sure she was included in our games, she decided to become Director of the Playground. She’s been bossing everybody around ever since.” May San scowled. “The girls tried to be nice and play her games, but they’re really getting sick of it. Most of them won’t even play with her anymore.”

“But you still play with her?” asked Mom.

“I did,” said May San, “but when she complained today about the girls playing silly games instead of her games, I said I kind of felt like joining them. She got mad.” May San sighed. “I… well, I really wanted to tell her off, but I didn’t say anything more.”

“I think that was wise, but the Bible does say to tell the truth,” said Mom.

“You mean I should go ahead and tell her she’s selfish and bossy?” gasped May San.

Mom smiled. “Not exactly,” she said, “but go look up Ephesians 4:15.”

May San got her Bible and returned to the kitchen. She found the verse and read it slowly. “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.” May San frowned. “Speaking the truth in love,” she repeated. “How would I do that?”

“Your attitude when you talk with Marie should be loving, not grouchy and accusing,” Mom replied. “Try to calmly explain to her why she’s losing all her friends, and help her realise that everyone wants a turn at deciding what to do. Okay?” May San nodded thoughtfully. “It won’t be easy,” added Mom, “but ask God to help you say the things He wants you to say in the way He wants you to say them. Dad and I will be praying for you, too.”

Thought: Do you know someone who needs to be told the truth about himself?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, if there were a child who needed to be told the truth, may I tell it in love. I know it is not going to be easy – so help me pray and ask for Your help even before I talk to him or her. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.