Don’t Be A Phony

Being a phony is an intensely tiring way to live.  Giving false impressions and lying to cover up attitudes or behaviours drains us of joy and energy.  Shoving “our truth” in someone’s face is disrespectful and more irritating than helpful, but how can we be sure we are not being fake?  Where is the balance between being kind and being honest? 

God gave us this command: If we love God, we must also love each other as brothers and sisters.  (1 John 4:21 ERV)

We also need friends with whom we can share our sorrows and burdens and there is a time when we need to let ourselves be vulnerable and share our hurts and frustrations.  

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, positive person.  My desire is to always pay attention to caring people who take the time to encourage me with wise feedback, and to speak the truth in love when I am communicating with others.  Amen