Here Is An Important Truth—Be Honest! … Hello Hump Day readers. Today I’m asking from you all about ‘honesty’. The reason is, it seems that honesty is failing in so many places, in our homes, churches, government, our work places, and yes—those who come to camp in the great outdoors.

Starting on May 22 to the 25th, our campground and also on the lake-side was completely packed. Memorial Day is always like that, the sad part of this is that it’s mostly not about what Memorial Day really is! It’s more about swimming, boating, etc. I find that sad because Memorial Day is not about fun on the water, it is a time of remembrance for all our military who stood in to help and many did die—the ultimate sacrifice.

These 4 days had more people that decided our Army Corp of Engineers rules didn’t pertain to them. When our rangers caught them with alcohol, weed, drugs, guns, etc., the first thing they would say is, “Oh, we didn’t do that” yet they slurred their words and could hardly stand up. No honesty there. On the water where rules really need to keep from hurting yourself and others, was just as bad. “Oh, we didn’t know we had to have life-jackets” yet the signs are everywhere—no honesty there either. I could go on and on but I think you get my drift.

Honesty is so important for our lives. Sadly, honestly seems to be taken over from lies and non-truths. How would you feel if your spouse, friend, parent, etc., didn’t tell you the truth, didn’t teach you that honesty is one of those power-houses you need for your life? How would you live your life that way? I can tell you one thing; dishonesty breaks you in so many ways and it takes the joy of living as well. But even more than that, dishonesty breaks the heart of the Lord who has created you and loved you.

In Proverbs 12:17-19, King Solomon warns us about dishonesty and lies: “Truthfulness marks the righteous, but the habitual liar can never be trusted. Reckless words are like the thrusts of a sword, cutting remarks meant to stab and to hurt. But the words of the wise soothe and heal. Truthful words will stand the test of time, but one day every lie will be seen for what it is.”  [The Passion Translation]

Don’t be afraid to tell God the details of your sins. Honesty in your confession allows God to forgive you and give you freedom and a heart and mind that is joyful instead of walking in the shadows because of dishonesty and lies. God and God alone has the power to transform, so why shouldn’t we cling to God in pure vulnerability as who we are right now?

Think about these questions: 1) What area of your life needs more honesty today? 2) How can you practically “open the door” to let Jesus into the places you’ve been keeping closed? If we’ve drifted, if we’ve stopped healing, we must open the door to Jesus who will mend our broken hearts.

It’s never easy to face dishonesty and the lies we have done but—we have a Savior who will help us. We have the power of the Holy Spirit who corrects and puts us on the right path.

Remember what Jesus said: “I am the Gateway. To enter through me is to experience life, freedom, and satisfaction.” [TPT]

Honesty isn’t always easy, but it’s always necessary for genuine relationships with God and with others. Pretending everything is fine when it’s not doesn’t fool anyone, especially not God. So, I am giving you an important truth: BE HONEST! Amen.