True Word, True Friend

Read Proverbs 24

An honest answer is like a kiss of friendship.

Proverbs 24:26

Sometimes it seems to not be in our best interest to tell a friend the truth. He might get mad at us. Yell at us. Even end our friendship. But friends who tell the truth, despite possible repercussions, are rare.

Regardless of whether we want to share the truth or whether the other person wants to hear the truth, honesty ought to reign over all. The truth, though it may conjure up hurt and bitterness, always stands on its own in the end.

Jesus didn’t do people favors by candy coating the consequences of sin. He taught people about the agony of it and the need for repentance. Jesus could have danced around the issue. But because he loves people, he would rather tell the hard truth than let them relax and be content with their sin.

As Proverbs 24:26 states, it is an honor to be told the truth. Telling the hard truth is an act of courage, risking hurt feelings so that a friend can hear what’s important. A friend who is willing to take that risk is a true friend indeed.

A WORD FOR TODAY

A hurtful truth may be a precious gift.

Today, Lord, I will tell the truth in love. Help me to hear and to accept the truth from my friends.