Truth Telling

"The Lord detests lying lips,
but He delights in those who tell the truth." Proverbs 12:22 NLT

This passage is one of those that can bring peace and strife. It's pretty straight forward--God loves us to tell the truth. In fact, it is so important to Him, that it is one of the ten commandments: "Thou shall not lie."

But I get asked and I often ask myself--how much truth? Should we tell the truth if it is going to hurt the other person? What's wrong with a "little" white lie? It keeps the other person hurt-free. It takes care of the situation that is a win-win for everyone. Or is it?

Just like with our children--or even with ourselves--in order to grow or to remember a lesson learned, there sometimes needs to be a little honest pain.

Now, of course, I'm not saying to be heartless and unnecessarily cruel with our tongue and words. But wisely instruct with spiritual honesty, what it is that you feel God is telling you to say.

Check your heart & spirit. Then pray before you speak that He will prepare you and the other person involved, so that the outcome will be what He wanted.

Sometimes it takes real courage to speak the truth. And it is not always pleasant. But if your spirit tells you to do it, then you will have what it takes to get the job done.

Some people make cutting remarks,
but the words of the wise bring healing. Proverbs 12:18 NLT