Transparency 2.0

Transparency 2.0

Yesterday we talked about the value of having a mentor outside of our family. Earlier in the year we discussed things to look for, but yesterday we focused on the fact that God will provide just the right person if we ask. Once you have linked up with person it will be critical for you to be transparent with them so that your motives, as well as the challenges you face can be placed in context and a suitable direction provided for you.

Throughout our rushed lives we tend to forget the critical nature of the fact that God is searching our hearts, wants to relieve us of our anxieties as well as provide us with peace. He tells us that in Psalm 139:23 – 24: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” Can we share our motivations and anxieties with Him through prayer – of course. However, I must ask you: “How good and how faithful are you with prayer?” Most of us have trouble doing this. So, we must remember that His Body (“Body of Christ”) is here on earth and that we also have access to Him through His Body.

If you are like most humans, prayers are normally one-sided. Unless you can truly say that you: Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thessalonians 5:16 – 18) your tendency is probably to communicate better with other members of the Body of Christ. While we all want to achieve this level of commitment and communication with our Spiritual Family, the truth is that we get caught up in life and the world we live in. Therefore, we still need to find a way to live out Psalm 139:23 – 24. The best way is through a member of the Spiritual Body that you can trust and one who can take your innermost thoughts, assimilate them and then share what the Spirt leads them to say without judging you. Don’t ever give up on prayer. Discipline yourself and grow into a life of prayer. Just understand your limitations.

Here are a couple thoughts and reasons behind why I am sharing this with you: (1) When you are transparent, you won’t try to pretend to be what you are not. (2) When you are transparent, you will not hide your emotions or your true feelings. (3) When you are transparent, you can be completely honest. The times of transparency will vary in life, but when you are with a trusted friend and advisor this is critical. That advisor must assume the role of searching you, trying you, knowing your thoughts and seeing if there is wickedness inside of you. They can’t do that without transparency.

None of us enjoy being seen in that light. And, I am not sure it will ever be comfortable.

Yet, it will happen. We can deal with it now, or deal with it later when we are judged.  The challenge then is that the consequences are more far-reaching and longer lasting. I would encourage you to take the hit now, rather than eternally. If you cannot talk with us, find the pastor, mentor or friend that will love you enough to tell you the truth.

One last thing. Transparency has its place in society also, regardless of what people say. If you’ve wronged someone it is best to admit your sin and/or oversight and seek forgiveness. If you’ve failed and someone needs to know you’ve failed, you need to admit it. If you’re hurting, it’s best to share it with those who can help, especially God.

Don’t let pride get in the way. Not everyone may appreciate your honesty. Those who count, will.

Love Dad

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *