Telling the Truth is Courageous

Telling the truth is something we all need to do, even if we don't feel that our elders do it, or our peers do it. What matters is what we have CHOSEN to do it. Even if someone doesn't know the difference it's vital that we tell the truth. 

God knows, and we know, and ultimately those of us that live in Christ will feel the pain and the burden when we are NOT truthful. It's better to be honest, even if it hurts, then to be dishonest and lead others astray. 

What is the difference and WHY does it matter? Telling the truth is what God asks of us, what He wants from us, and  we can ultimately lead a better life when we follow through with this. Let me tell you a story. 

Telling the Truth NOW Makes Life Easier Later 

If you look at this photo to the right, this gentleman seems to be struggling with telling the truth. Why is he struggling? In this case, let's say that he doesn't want to be so transparent and reveal who he really is in life. 

It may be that he wanted a certain life, but yet he didn't have it. He says things that elevate him, but they do nothing for anyone else. Sounds selfish right? Not to mention, it just isn't the truth, plain and simple folks. 

How about weight loss? He wants to lose 20 pounds, and he is anxious to get there. People start asking him, "So, how much have you lost?" His reply is, "I've lost 20 pounds!" Huh. That's odd, the scale only says 16 pounds down. 

It's so amazing how we do this, and the problem is the more we do it, the more we are okay with this. This is a problem of integrity, and it's a problem of character. Character is who you are when no one is looking, and your integrity is in question when you lie to them when you are talking to them. 

Telling the Truth Means Being Authentic 

Remember, it's best to be yourself, no matter who you are. Real love, is when people love you no matter what they know about you, and no matter what they have shared with you. This is why so many marriages fail. 

They are NOT authentic. 

Men and women hide bad habits, hide facts about their life to impress one another, or out of fear that they won't be loved as much as they could be otherwise. Unconditional love says that no matter what, love conquers all. Even if you tell the truth. 

Sometimes the truth is ugly folks, but it's alwayss right. So, ask yourself a few things:

• What truth can you tell today to someone you have lied to?
• What can you do now going forward to implement healthy behaviors?
• What one thing could you change to be a person of character? 

Think on these things, and remember, telling the truth is ALWAYS right!