I think that some of the most hurtful lies are not the ones that are blatant and outright, but they are the ones that are sprinkled with truth. They are the zingers laced in sarcasm, the truth framed in fear, and/or the hope tied to negative expectations. The most devastating part of these lies is that there is a nugget of truth to them; however, the way in which the truth is communicated sets people up for more pain and confusion than most blatant lies. These types of lies are masked with a sense of care that appeal to the need of the human heart to be loved, but even though there are bits of truth they are drowned out in the package that they come in – a lie.
These lies not only influence the recipient, but they set the giver up for failure as well. They produce a sense of genuine care and concern for the other person. The lies take on the assumption that because there is a bit of truth, then the package in which they are coming in is wrapped in true love and concern for the recipient’s well-being. Thus, both parties are left reeling in confusion all the while believing that every word and feeling behind the words are evidence of real truth and care. But, that is not the case.
Real truth can only be given in love. And, love always hopes, it never gives up, it always believes the best, it is never self-seeking, it doesn’t boast, and it is always given without strings attached. To discern whether or not your truth is laced in lies, take a step back and evaluate the feelings behind what you are communicating. Are you picking up old shields of self-protection? Are you speaking truth to get something in return? Are you believing the best?
Speaking the truth and loving well requires us to lay down those shields of self-protection. It asks us to give our trust to Hope and allow Faith and Love to protect us and meet the needs within our hearts. It requires strength beyond what is humanly possible. And, it can only truly be done when you find your true Hope and Love from the One who created them. It’s time to stop lying, to love fiercely, and to hope fervently. It’s time to trust.
Taking A Risk,
– The Lily
Isaiah 26:3“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.”
I AM THE LILY 