To Tell the Truth

John MacArthur said recently the most loving thing you can do is tell someone the truth.

Proverbs 27:6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy.

I'm not a confrontational person, I don't like controversy, but I can get riled up. I see things on Facebook or hear things first hand and often feel the need to address those things. I don't want to create conflict or hurt anyone's feelings, so I usually stay quiet about the matter. But after talking with a friend lately, it seems necessary to address a few things. No, they may not be earth shattering, but they could have long term implications if they aren't addressed.

So here it is-

• Do not tell your small children that medicine is candy. It isn't, that's a dangerous lie. She may want to eat more "candy" when you aren't looking. And if that's not true, what else are you telling her is candy? Tell her the truth every time. She needs your honesty.
• Don't frighten your children in the name of fun at Halloween. That's mean spirited and teaches them to do the same. You can't scare your children one day and then expected them to trust you the next.
• There is no need to forward those sweet sentimental sayings thinking that God will bless you through that. There is no proof of connection between your clicking a button and God sending special favors to you or those you love. It's a nice idea, but God blesses you through His Word and the prayers of His people.
• About bullying- Don't bash bullies when you aren't willing to teach your children to take responsibility for themselves. Yes, bullying is wrong! But sometimes (yes, sometimes) children ask for it. It's no excuse for bullying, bullying is wrong. But teach your children to stand up and say a definitive no to wrong words and behavior, not to always run from it. There are times when a child must run, but I think we're creating a scared society. Children cannot constantly hide behind their parents' skirt tails. They must learn right from wrong and that their parents cannot bail them out. Yes, I know bullying is wrong! And another thing, it isn't bullying when someone disagrees with you.
• Stop bashing immodesty in girls and never address the boys, especially if you are wearing low cleavage blouses, short skirts and bikinis.

Did I offend anyone? I hope not, but sometimes the truth is offensive. Do I want to speak in love? Absolutely! Each of these points have so much that could be developed, and I have spoke to some of them in the past. But I hold back too many times for fear of offending. So please don't be offended, just know that I'm trying to speak the truth in love.

Do I need to be spoken to in love? Definitely! I'm sure there are things in my life that need to be spoken to and I hope I receive it with the intent that I give it.