There is no more tiring way of life than being a phony. Giving false impressions and lying to cover up attitudes or behaviours drains us of energy and joy. A person who shoves "their particular truth" in our faces in a less than respectful way is more irritating than helpful. How can we make sure we are not the ones who are being fake? Where's the balance in being kind and being honest?
With most people our first responsibility is to simply be truthful, kind, and respectful. We are to love God with all our heart and love our neighbour as ourselves. There will be those close trusted friends with whom we share our burdens and our frustrations, but for most people, positive, uplifting and respectful talk should be our norm. There are always things to be grateful for no matter how challenged we feel.
God gave us this command: If we love God, we must also love each other as brothers and sisters. (1 John 4:21 ERV)
There is a time to be vulnerable and share our hurts and frustrations. We need friends with whom we can share our sorrows and burdens. We need to welcome honest feedback even when it makes us uncomfortable. We all have blind spots. We need honest support from sponsors and trusted friends. We don't need someone who is just going to smile and be nice to us while we wallow in self-pity or slide into harmful patterns of living.
You can trust what your friend says, even when it hurts. But your enemies want to hurt you, even when they act nice. (Proverbs 27:6 ERV)
So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you’ll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you’re already doing this; just keep on doing it. (1 Thessalonians 5:11 MSG)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Please help me to live as a genuine and positive person. Help me to always speak the truth in love and to listen to wise feedback from caring people who take the time to encourage me. Amen
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