Counsels on Relationships
Counsel #8 — Transforming Truth
Picture: Counsel #8 — Transforming Truth CR 76.1
Have you ever been in the middle of a conversation and instantly sensed the other person was lying? What gave it away? In modern-day society, convenience is often chosen over truth, which almost always leads to miscommunication and unnecessary conflict. CR 76.2
In a world filled with misinformation, often discerning truth from a lie is only possible through prayer and spending time in Scripture. As followers of Christ, we’re called to live with integrity—not just in what we do, but in what we say. Truthfulness goes beyond simply avoiding lies; it means speaking with honesty for the benefit of others, even when it’s hard. During His time on earth, Jesus exemplified this concept perfectly. When He spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well, He told her the truth with kindness and compassion. His words didn’t shame her—they transformed her. As believers, we carry that same power today. To activate it, we must communicate with full transparency, courage, and love, reflecting God’s light through our words.1 CR 76.3
“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” Proverbs 12:22 NIV CR 76.4
“Strict honesty must be cultivated. We can go through the world but once; we cannot come back to rectify any mistakes…” Ellen White in Our High Calling , p. 226 CR 76.5
Reflect: When was the last time you chose dishonesty over telling the truth? How did it make you feel to not be honest? CR 76.6