I found a scripture in my reading today that really jumped out at me in answer to my "How Honest Is Honest?" question. It's Proverbs 28:23 (Living) "In the end, people appreciate frankness more than flattery." Hmmm. Tell me what you think.
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Well, seeing as the fact that it is scripture, I should probably agree, huh? And, to be quite honest (since we're on the subject), I do agree. Now, I do think there's a happy medium between complete LYING flattery (you look FABULOUS in that dress) and painful honesty (you look like a whale being squeezed into a baby leotard). There is always tact: that dress isn't as flattering as some of the others I've seen you wear. I'm a pretty "call-'em like I see 'em" kind of gal -- but I have the UTMOST regard for people's feelings and dignity. That's the honesty subject, but you mentioned confrontation. Those are two totally different things in my mind (okay, they go with each other, but are not identical). I can be honest all day long -- confrontation is a WHOLE other ball game to me.
On the converse, another Proverb for you: Proverbs1:22 "How long, you simples ones, will you love simplicity? For scorners delight in their scorning and FOOLS HATE KNOWLEDGE."
I have kept this verse in mind for a long time when trying to decide how much "honesty" I should share with a person. If they seem to be spiritually immature, I might hold back.
I felt the Lord led me to this verse after I had confronted a very spiritually immature believer on a sin issue. She didn't repent and the relationship was forever marred. In retrospect, maybe I should have taken her immaturity into account before confronting her.
I realize my example is much different from telling someone they look fat in a dress... :)
That is a good example and good thoughts. I think you are right that it will depend at times on how receptive that person will be.
I loved the verses from both of you! Those are all good thoughts!
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