THE TRUTH IS NECESSARY
First, in order to mature we need to speak the truth. Many times, we will not want to hear the truth, but it will be what causes us to mature in order to have the character of Christ.
The Bible teaches us that only the truth will set us free (John 8:32). There are many who go through life rejecting the truth, but believing the lies of the enemy. This is why, they have not been able to achieve true success in their life. On the other hand, there are others who have accepted the truth and learned to love the truth, because they understand that the truth will give them the freedom that was released by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.
Secondly, the truth must be told with love so that people receive it. If it’s not told with love, then it will be rejected and it will not produce its benefit.
The person who speaks the truth will be more appreciated than the person who sugar codes things. Nevertheless, we cannot be frank while lacking prudence. In other words, it is essential to say the truth with love, respect, and dignity. Again, if we fail to do this, our words will be in vain.
“Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ…” (Ephesians 4:15 NLT).
Thirdly, when we say the truth with love we grow in healthy relationships and improve our marriage, our church, and friendships at work and school.
People do not want to have dishonest friends who don’t tell them the truth because they are afraid of offending them. Everybody needs to have friends and good relationships allowing them to be honest with one another.
Becoming people who love the truth ensures that we will have true friends and healthy relationships, therefore, what the Bible says about relationships will be fulfilled in our lives, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed” (Ecclesiastes 4:9 NLT).
The truth is vital to mature. Maybe, you need to read the Bible and remember the truth God thinks about you. Or perhaps, you need to tell yourself the truth or someone else. Today I invite you to decide to love the truth and live in the truth, because this is the only way you will mature, be successful, and have healthy relationships.
Think about it:
What lies of the enemy have you believed instead of believing in God’s truths?
What truth do you need to tell yourself?
What truth do you need to tell someone?