“you can’t handle the truth”… that famous quote from the movie a few good men.
that’s certainly one point of view of why we don’t tell each other the truth in love… however, there are many other reasons why it’s difficult to speak truth and life into others. i think far too often, we want to look good in front of others, we desire friendship and don’t want to offend people. however, i think we also underestimate how telling the truth to others gently in love can actually help them… even though it might not seem pleasant at the time.
i love the message version of ephesians 4 verses 25 and 29.
“what this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ’s body we’re all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself. Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.”
go on… be a gift to others!
