The new minister stood at the church door greeting the members as they left the Sunday morning service. Most of the people were very generous telling the new minister how much they liked his message, except for one man who said, “The was a very dull and boring sermon, pastor.” A few minutes later, the same man again appeared in line and said, “I don’t think you did much preparation for your message.” Once again, the man appeared, this time muttering, “You really blew it. You didn’t have a thing to say, pastor.” Finally, the minister could stand it no longer. He went to one of the deacons and inquired about the man. “Oh, don’t let that guy bother you,” said the deacon. “He’s a little off. All he does is go around repeating whatever he hears other people saying.” 1 John 3:18 Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.

Hearing the truth can be a hard thing. Hearing the truth after you’ve been told something else can be devastating. Sometimes folks tell us what we want to hear, sometimes they say nothing at all. Silence or deception…not a good choice either way. We have no way to grow, to improve, to become who we should be if we don’t get the negative feedback when warranted as much as we want the positive feedback. Don’t shoot the messenger, be sure to really examine the message and make an informed decision. Sometimes you may not want to change, sometimes you may not be able to change…but it should be an informed choice; not lack of one. And give others the same consideration.

Lots of truth to be found in Scripture. There you will find the opportunity to examine yourself and your actions against what God expects of you and make choices. God lets you choose to blind yourself or open your eyes; follow his Word or stumble alone on your own. There are many folks in our churches working hard to hear the truth and stay on the path of Salvation. Visit a local church and see if there are some truths that need to be spoken in your life. Disclaimer: I am in No way advocating you finally tell your wife that her macaroni and cheese ain’t as good as Mama’s was… some things are better left unsaid. Presbyterian service is at 11:00 on first Presbyterian Church of Munising Facebook page.