LEARNING DAILY

 

Proverbs 24:26, An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.

 

I bet I have your attention this morning and got you wondering where in the world this is going! Might we agree that kiss might be a figure of speech for friendship and affection. This proverb implies something sincere, straightforward and truthful, is important to be considered. There is an idea that wise, honest, and helpful answers or suggestions are blessings to the one who hears or reads them. All of us need to have wise counsel in our lives, those who would speak truth to us when we need to be corrected or help us walk the narrow way when we need guidance. The book of Proverbs tells us in many verses about “heeding wise counsel” (12:15,16, 18), “choosing our friends wisely” (12:25), and “the love one has who speaks to him what is right” (16:13).

 

Ephesians 4:15 tells us to “tell the truth in love”. That was the model Jesus gave us and it is necessary the Church, the body of Christ follow His example. I am sure it is possible to tell the truth without being loving; perhaps, all of us has experienced that in our life. But is it possible to be genuinely loving without telling the truth? I do not believe love is expressed by telling comforting lies or giving false guarantees. Ephesians 4:25 is clear about the way we speak to others, “therefore, putting away lying, ‘Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor, ’for we are members on one another.” As Christians, we are to be different, unique in a world of deceit, lies, and ungodliness. Verse 29 in Ephesians 4 continues this thought, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” We need to choose our words so they encourage, exhort, and impact grace, God’s grace to others.

 

You might be wondering why write this today. If a “kiss” is to be thought of as an honest answer, a straightforward response to words written or spoken and to our actions, they are especially appreciated from those who are important to us –like those we might receive a kiss from. There are times I write something in this blog that is not as clear to others as my mind was thinking. And there have just been some thoughts written incorrectly. I am thankful when one of you have suggested to me my error or asked for clarification of my thought(s). I have tried to write truth in order encourage all of us – me included – as we walk the narrow way into God’s kingdom.

 

That being said, the meaning of this proverb is quite clear – a straightforward answer or writing of a blog is important and necessary, especially in the days we live. Some might not appreciate a “kiss” on the lips from me as I write, but I believe you will appreciate honesty and truth as I write. I will do as best I can. But do not hesitate to ask for clarification on something that is not clear!