The Sting of Truth

Jesus set an example we don’t follow.

He met people in their sin, forgave and instructed them to stop. He called out their truth and showed deep love for their soul through His mercy.

I can’t think of one example where he chased them down without accountability and self-denial. Even the prodigal’s father sat at home waiting for his boy. Jesus told the woman brought to him, who was caught in adultery, to let go of her sinful desires for men and stop sleeping around when he said, “Go and sin no more.”

Substance use itself desecrates our body and mind and dishonors God and His Word. The actions that often come through addiction can be sinful- stealing, lying, hurting innocent children, etc.

We ALL sin and fall short. Your sin is no worse than mine.

It’s what we do after that matters- be accountable and take responsibility!

*Confession, repentance, and renewal through his grace, mercy, and love.

Self-control matters:
“A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.”
Proverbs 25:28

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age…”
Titus 2:11-12

Turning to Christ is the way.

“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
1 Corinthians 10:13 (always misquoted and misunderstood, not to mention people refuse to turn to Jesus through their temptation)

I know Jesus is love!

Jesus is also TRUTH- and His truth can’t be denied. His Word can’t be rejected to allow people to feel good in their sin.

Jesus is the WAY! Freedom is but a decision away. Jesus is LIFE. We must die to ourselves and our worldly desires and live free in Christ.

Living for Christ changes you, and that is where healing begins. It’s a healing that lasts.

As Christian parents, we KNOW this! It is in our desperation that we sidestep the whole truth and cherry-pick the desirable parts of God’s Word.

God will speak directly to the heart of His children, we are to speak fully to His truth. Yes, it will probably sting, it’s meant to! I’m sure the woman at the well was stung when Jesus called out her sexual sin.

I may not like the tough decisions I’ve had to make, but I know they were made in love and truth.

This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Authentic Truths

About the Author

Lisa Wenninger is a speaker, writer, podcaster, and Kingdom Winds Collective member. She currently manages a local church with a family of believers she loves. Lisa enjoys volunteering as a Stephen Minister and being able to walk alongside others in their time of need. She is an animal lover (former assistant to the director at this fantastic location), a beach enthusiast, and enjoys hiking, museums, and eating out. Fun fact - she loves to sing but says that you don’t want to hear her do it.

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