Daily Devotion

“If we want to preach in the modern world, we must first be willing to listen to the questions of others; if you spend too much time giving answers and ignore the struggles deep in the soul of the other person, then no matter how correct your answer is, it will not touch their heart.”

Francis Schaefer · Rational Avoidance

Scripture

1 Corinthians 8:1 As for things sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. But knowledge puffs up a person, while love edifies.

Reflection

We can easily accumulate a perfect set of "apology logic" or "gospel answers" and arm ourselves with them. However, knowledge divorced from empathy for others easily degenerates into a sense of spiritual superiority, building high walls rather than bridges. Correct viewpoints, without the wrapping of love, often become rigid dogmas, intimidating and frightening. True "edification" is not about conquering others with logic, but about bending down to be a patient listener in the struggle of their souls. Only when others feel respected and understood can our truthful knowledge transform into sweet rain, nourishing their thirsty hearts. What we should strive for is not to win an argument, but to win a soul.