All the words of my mouth are righteous, nothing in them is perverse or crooked. Proverbs 8:8, TLV
The Whole Story? Have you ever encountered someone who conveys information, but you’re not quite sure you’re getting the whole story? They either have withheld details relevant to an accurate account, or have shaped their story in such a way that, well, just feels off?
It is wise and prudent to be discerning about who we tell our business to, however there are circumstances where we need to be transparent and up front. Withholding details, or the full truth, in order to manipulate the outcome is subterfuge at best and lying at worst.
A Better Story?
For many years of my life, I was one of those people. Because of events in my childhood, I tended to not always be forthright. Initially, I felt I had to hide the bad things that happened to me. It became a patterned behavior. Most times I didn’t realize I was doing it. Other times I did it out of fear. Fear of losing control, fear of disappointing others, fear of being wrong, fear of shame. Just about any type of fear out there.
Fortunately, my Heavenly Father walked me through deliverance of 
this fear and subsequent behavior. My sanctification process was those daily moments in Proverbs, also with other passages in Scripture. This is why I know that GOD’s word changes lives — I’m a living example. So, when I encourage you all to abide in Proverbs each day, it’s because I love you. And it’s why I am forever grateful to my Daddy for loving me where I am, but not leaving me there.
My hope and prayer, my dear friends, is that if you struggle with lying, exaggeration, or verbal manipulation, you will take it to the LORD and a trusted faith-mentor. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in His truth.
You can be set free from these sinful behaviors — whatever they might be. It begins with acknowledgment. Then freedom is on the horizon.
Think More About It
Do you also struggle with not giving the full story as a means of manipulating? Have you experienced a victory in that area?
I love your questions and insights — please comment below. And if this blog is a blessing, please share. Thanks!
Until tomorrow, may our words be true and righteous, my friends.
There has been a plethora of manipulative stories with half truths or out and out lies about Israel and the Jewish people. Please pray that the truth reigns. Thank you and God bless you!
