Truth hurts... or does it?

Through our everyday walk we will encounter different people. Some we will like or get along with, some we will be polite to and wave from a distance. One of these type of people that I am sure that you will meet, if you have not done so already are those who believe that are call to be truthful no matter how it comes out.

You've might of heard this before....

"I am just being honest, or I am saying the truth and if the truth hurts then it's no my fault."

or something to that effect.

I understand that our best policy and what we have been called to do is to tell the truth. There should really be no type of deceit, double minded or intentional misguidance form us. I am sure that you heard the saying, "The truth shall set you free!" I totally agree with this. But does the truth have to hurt or rather can we hurt someone with the truth? I believe we can. Should we hurt them with the truth? I don't think we should.

I know that we are called to say the truth...

Ephesians 4:25
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body.

I guess what we forget to think about is how to speak in truth to one another. Truth in itself should not be used to hurt it should not be said to demean others and certainly not to appear to be better than any one else. The truth should be used to correct, to teach, to guide, to lead.

Galatians 6:1-2
Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

The key word in this verse is gently. We get caught up on trying to be right and be truth full and forget that purpose and the way we should go about doing it. Is not just about being blunt and truthful is about restoring someone with the truth.

2 Timothy 2:1-2
Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of truth.

Is not about beating people over the head with the truth until we feel like it's either working or it is hopeless. Is about sharing who Jesus is and leading them to the knowledge that will change their lives.

Truth is something very powerful.... but it should not hurt rather it should restore, build and edify.