DAY 4: Audacity to Speak Truth to Power
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness.” – Matthew 23:23
Devotional:
Jesus wasn’t afraid to call out hypocrisy, even when it came from the religious elite. The Pharisees were seen as the most devout, yet Jesus boldly exposed their pretense and misplaced priorities. He wasn’t intimidated by their authority or influence; He cared more about the truth and the heart of God’s mission.
Speaking truth to power isn’t easy. It requires courage, conviction, and clarity of purpose. Jesus’ words were not intended to condemn but to correct. His boldness was rooted in love and a desire to lead people back to what truly matters: justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
When we see injustice or misuse of power, we are often tempted to stay silent to avoid conflict. But Jesus teaches us that silence isn’t always the answer. Sometimes, being bold means standing firm and speaking truth, even if it makes us unpopular.
Reflection Question:
Where is God calling you to speak truth in love, even if it feels challenging?