I think if we are honest, when we say to someone, “Tell me the truth about me” there are times we aren’t really sure we want to hear the truth. We know all the sayings about a real friend who will tell it to us like it is and will be honest with us, but Man! it hurts no matter who says it.
Our reaction to truth will determine whether that person will ever speak truth to us again. But before you or I get upset when someone tells us the truth about ourselves, consider this verse: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a person who listens to advice is wise.” (Pr. 12:15 NASB2020)
Fool = right in his own eyes
Wise= listens to advice from another
Hmmm. Where does that put me? This opens up several thoughts:
- What does that say about me hiding truth from others about me? By others I’m referring to those close to me whom I have permission to speak truth to me.
- Have I cut myself off from others by attitude or actions? Have I given the cold shoulder to others or have I hid my real person?
People can’t be honest with me if I hide. If I withdraw. If I cover-up/mask who I am or how I feel.
This actually leads to Principle #7 which I will share tomorrow.
Vulnerability is hard… as is confrontation. And not all confrontation is bad. I think the accountability that goes with being vulnerable and giving permission to be confronted is powerful. Proverbs 27:17 Iron Sharpens iron so one person sharpens another… The sharpening of iron is not an easy task and results in shaping and removing…
So my thoughts… to be sharpened,
I have to be willing to be “unsheathed” and to have myself exposed.
I wouldn’t give my sword to an enemy or a child, but someone I trust. I think the same applies to being vulnerable. There needs to be absolute trust.
I think it is vital to keep an edge and if I continue to hide or cut myself off from others… I will get dull, I will get rusty, I will eventually become ineffective.
Looking forward to reading #7 tomorrow!
Ryan S.
You have expressed it well Ryan. To be “unsheathed” takes a willingness to do so. And a willingness to sometimes having your heart broken by the truth. Thanks.
If we don’t open ourselves up to honest advice from others, we are more foolish than we even imagine.
Blessings, Bill!
My sentiments exactly Martha. It is dangerous ground to be closed off.
I believe it takes a very strong person to ask another person to tell them the truth (about them) as they see it. It also takes a very strong person to be humble enough to accept that truth.
Correct on both counts Ed. it isn’t easy taking it nor giving it.
Truth and love, John preaches about it all the time. It may not always be easy, but there is no closer relationship than in one that is built in truth and love. The same can be said about our relationship with Christ. Matthew 22:37, when we choose to be honest with Christ, rather than hide, or try to explain why, and just open up to His word and His ways. Our relationship spiritually can grow in ways that will be amazing. After all we know that God is truth and love, but we need to offer the gift back to him as well.
Truth and love is absolutely the way to go Gail! It is important in the church but it is also important in an individual’s life.