What do we do with truth that upsets us? Do we just dismiss it? Do we try to ignore it? Do we get emotional and throw a tantrum? Do we just let our anger take over our reaction? Do we throw insults at the truth hoping that it will go away? Why is the Truth so offensive?
In the scriptures the Truth is often likened to a ‘sword’. Most swords are double sided. And I think that the Truth can often cut the user and much as the one receiving the thrust. If we think we can escape the Truth when giving the Truth to someone else …is ignorance. We first must examine our own position and self …first.
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.
Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. Matthew 7:1-6
Those that are entrenched in their own pride are the most resistant to the Truth. If one is indwelled and inhabited by the Spirit of Truth (Holy Spirit), the Truth will be confirmed within them no matter how uncomfortable it is to them. Then the confirmation and confrontation of the Truth will demand action on the hearer of the Truth (Word). This is also why repentance is such a needed attitude within the characteristic of humility. Often the Truth illumines our own sin and iniquities within us.
Think of sin as a weed above ground. And iniquities as the weed’s root system. If we just cut off the weed at ground level and no longer see it have we eliminated the weed? Yes, above ground we have, but it will come back because of the roots. Our iniquities (the roots) are within our character and must be dealt with by the Holy Spirit Himself. That rooting out process can be painful and deep, but so necessary to eliminate an issue in your life. (Romans 12:1) And then the Spirit of God wants to ‘plant’ His own fruit into your life. (Galatians 5:22-23)
No human is shielded from this confrontation of the Truth. When confronted with the Truth everyone has to make a choice. Accept it or deny it. Our God given free will must decide what we will do with the Truth we have just been confronted with.
So when you encounter the pain of a truth … learn how to embrace it and utilize it to have it’s work in you. Obviously the best way is to allow the wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit in each detail and step of the process.