10/25/24

Proverbs 12:17-18 NASB1995 He who speaks truth tells what is right, But a false witness, deceit. There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, But the tongue of the wise brings healing.

We have all heard the saying, "The truth hurts." This is so often the case because we live in a fallen upside-down world filled with sinners. Thus the truth of our life on this earth is filled with a lot of hurt. However, we must never forget that the truth is always right. Anything not said in truth is deceit (false/lie) and is sin. I was actually called out by a friend recently speaking truth to me when I had told a lie. In truth, I was convicted and had to seek forgiveness. When he spoke the truth to me, I first attempted to justify it, but God said no, it is a sin. That hurt, but at the same time, it was right! Once I sought forgiveness from God I felt so much better.

Our text says there is one who speaks rashly like the thrust of the sword. Some people would say because the friend speaking truth to me caused me pain, it was wrong. However, that is incorrect. The thrusting of the sword is speaking with a desire to kill, not to bring about abundant life. My friend helped me live the abundant life. By helping me realize my sin, I could repent and live in a closer walk with Jesus. What He did is speak the truth. This only hurt me because I was in sin. However, this brought me back to the truth that Jesus died to pay the wages of my sin and bring healing. His words were wise because they were truth and brought healing.

The truth hurts only because it reveals our sin but when spoken with the hope of bringing healing, it is wise.

Proverbs 12:17-18 NASB1995 He who speaks truth tells what is right, But a false witness, deceit. There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, But the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Be thankful for the hurt of the truth, that brings joy in abundant life with Jesus.

Love Bro. Scott