Look Behind the Words, Rather Than to the Words Themselves
“Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil”(Matthew 5:37).
Jesus emphasized the importance of speaking with honesty and integrity in his most famous sermon, the Sermon on the Mount. Therefore, it is safe to deduce that truthfulness matters.
As demonstrated in numerous ways within our culture, such as through social media and a polarized political environment, it seems like truth is being devalued with each passing day.
Now, people look to the spirit behind the words, rather than to the words themselves.
Rosie Moore writes, “Throughout the world, the last two years have demonstrated that politicians, media, health industries, even so-called experts and fact checkers, have no regard for the truth. We’ve seen scientists, doctors, and safety councils bought off just as easily as politicians and policemen. People know they’ve been lied to and they’re weary of broken promises.”
People tend to be more accepting of lies if the liar is in alignment with their belief system. In these scenarios, there is a tendency to look the other way or to ignore the mishap altogether.
However, Jesus calls us to a higher standard … to a standard of holiness. He calls us to speak earnestly and truthfully.
Christians should lead the way in honesty. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.
What are areas of your life that convey untrustworthiness? Do you honor commitments?
Do you pray for people the way that you commit to pray for them?
Do you shy away from speaking truth out of fear of offense?
Jesus, who is Truth (John 14:6), modeled speaking the truth even when it was not conducive to His current situation. For instance, Jesus angered religious leaders, turned away potential followers, and created plenty of awkward moments because He was unwilling to lie or sugar-coat reality.
Jesus did not let comfort or ease deter Him from proclaiming truth. We constantly face temptations to speak lies or half-truths.
Dave Myers explains, “Some people lie habitually to make themselves appear better than they are, thinking that telling an untruth will shine a more positive light upon themselves. Others attempt to lie strategically when they think it will benefit them, bring some advantage or get them ahead.”
Let’s ask God to give us boldness and conviction about speaking truth in every situation.
The most important truth that we can convey is the Gospel. Jesus laid His life down for the forgiveness of sins, leading to salvation for all who believe on Him (Romans 10:13).
Withholding the Gospel for any reason, whether it be fear or complacency, is the worst form of untruthfulness. We must use every opportunity to point people to Jesus.
“And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness” (Acts 4:31).
