Are you an Honest Abe? from "His Kindness Year Round"

Honesty is an extremely important basis of a successful relationship.  It doesn't matter who the relationship is with, we need connections with people we can trust and with people we believe.

Philippians 4:8 "Christian brothers, keep your minds thinking about whatever is true, whatever is respected, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever can be loved, and whatever is well thought of.  If there is anything good and worth giving thanks for, think about these things." 

We each are blessed with at least a chosen few to whom we can tell our thoughts, emotions and feelings. These are probably people we know we can trust and who will be honest with us.

1 Corinthians 8:21 "We want to do the right thing.  We want God and men to know we are honest."

We each are fortunate to have those who love us unconditionally, perhaps as the agape love Paul expresses in 1 Corinthians 13.  It's hopeful these are people we can trust.

We have a network of people we relate with for a wide variety of reasons.  Some of these we can trust, and with some, we need to be cautious.

Colossians 3:9-10 "Do not lie to each other.  You have put out of your life your old ways. You have now become a new person and are always learning more about Christ. You are being made more like Christ.  He is the One Who made you."

Followers of Jesus have a spiritual community in which we have fellowship.  It is very important these people are honest in speaking and living the Word -- the truth, and not false teachings as the New Testament repeatedly refers, especially as end times draw near. 

1 Timothy 4:1-2 "Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons.  These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead."

There is one who will never be honest with you.

Ephesians 6:11 "Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil."

More importantly, there is One Who will always be honest with you. 

Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You!"

The Father knows our thoughts, our heart, and certainly hears our words.  We aim to please Him in being honest with ourselves and with others.  We may need to stop and do a reality check on occasion to ensure we're on track.

Acts 24:16 "I always try to live so my own heart tells me I am not guilty before God or man."

Prayerfully, your sister in Him,

Robin