To Tell The Truth

DEVOTION
ROMANS
TO TELL THE TRUTH

Rom 9:1
9:1 I speak the truth in Christ — I am not lying, my conscience confirms it in the Holy Spirit—
NIV
Now there is a statement, which at least gives me the insight to how ought to approach my daily life in Christ. I am not lying; my conscience confirms it in the Holy Spirit. Yes indeed it is a great thing to be so close to God, to have the confirmation of the Holy Spirit upon each and every word I speak, each and every word I write. But wait there is more! Is this true? Do I have that confirmation? Do I always speak the truth? I know that I do not conceive any lies in my heart for any reason. I know I do not look for ways to deceive anyone with false truths especially when it comes to the Word of God. Paul says, “Truth in Christ”, and does that means out of Christ it is not as crucial to be truthful? I do not think so, not at all, by no means. I must be truthful in all areas of my life, as I am a representative of Christ to the world. I do know how easy it is to add to stories, to fabricate so slightly in order to either look better, or not look bad, to stay out of trouble or improve my position. Then again on the other hand, perhaps deleting, or leaving out some detail may very well serve as a not so truthful life. “Little white lies” are the things life is made of. I think everyone engages in these to some degree, but does the Holy Spirit confirm? No, I think not. I believe we all, I should be always listening, my conscience always aware of the ever present confirmation of the Holy Spirit. Now the question arises in my mind, “What if I am truthful and it hurts another”? How do I deal with this concept? What should I do? Should I not speak the truth, so as not to harm my brother in Christ? Maybe this is the time not to speak at all unless asked. Then what? Perhaps “I would rather not say”, could be my answer. Would the Holy Spirit confirm that? God’s Word surely does not pull any punches, should I?