Speaking out boldly about the truth

People really are funny.  They can jump from one belief to the next. It's so very important to be grounded in truth!  If not, you will truly be led this way and that. I think of Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey and they way people "believed" and were amazed at miracles. They thought Paul and Barnabas were gods themselves. When they were admonished they didn't understand. Then others came and dissuaded even their small belief and they tried to kill Paul.  Seriously; believe or don't. I understand God's reasoning for wanting people hot or cold but not luke warm.  Luke warm people are more dangerous than those who are boldly against God. At least someone against God can be argued with and possibly persuaded into seeing the truth.  But someone who believes everything? Not very convincing.  They just agree with anything and go along with everyone.

I understand that thinking; I love to keep peace with everyone I know. (and don't know for that matter!). I hate conflict. Literally makes me sick to my stomach.  But even agreeing can create conflict within one's self. I know I have heard people say things that just turn my stomach because I know they are false!  But I have held my tongue so as not to  create conflict. Isn't that the same as agreeing? Or as preaching the false teaching yourself? Sometimes it is!  I will say there are sometimes it's better to walk away and wait for the invitation to speak, but most of the time, I think we have an obligation to speak out in love and truth.  How did we learn if someone did not teach us? How will others learn if we do not speak the truth? More importantly, WHAT will they learn if we are not speaking the truth? 

I firmly believe we learn something every day. So, WHAT will be the something we learn?  I want it to be the truth. I want it to be beneficial, useful.  I want it to be pleasing to God.  Even learning something tough to swallow (convicting) is beneficial. It may not be pleasant but it is useful.  Today I will listen to the Holy Spirit's prompting and if He tells me to speak out against an untruth, I will do it. I will do it in love, with compassion and conviction. If I understand the truth in a situation, I will speak out boldly and not sit by and allow untruths to pour out upon my ears and the ears of my loved ones.  Have a blessed and beautiful Thursday everyone!