A little fib.
Is there really such a thing?
Like most folks I know I would say “I’m honest” and I do think that’s true.
But I want, no I need, to be a truth speaker because of who I am in Christ.
Let me share a story.
A couple of years ago, I was in my bible study group and we were talking about Snapchat. (Yep in bible study! Hey as my pastor says, “church can be fun too!”).
The topic was specific to when a couple of us send snaps (when really we shouldn’t be). Not because the snaps themselves are wrong/inappropriate but the “when” we were sending them is not the best decision.
That’s when I told a little fib.
I was basically denying it on behalf of me and th
However, the other person openly admitted to it and said something to the effect of ‘hey Shahla’s lying!’
Before anyone assumes condemnation or shaming occurred, let me be totally clear, it was done in a spirit of joking and laughter. She meant zero harm.
The group laughed and before long moved on to other conversations.
Clear as mud? Hope you’re still with me and on to the point God was molding.
In all things that matter, heart matters I would say I speak truth.
I’m honest in my marriage. Truth.
I’m honest in my work. Truth.
I’m honest in heart-to-heart talks with God, friends, and family. Truth.
I’m honest about who I am. Truth.
But here’s the thing…
If I’m a true follower of Christ, if I am His beloved and He is mine, if I am a true representative of His kingdom, all things matter.
Every word.
Every action.
This is where it becomes really clear. There is no such thing as a little fib.
Those things we’ve labeled as “harmless” or “white lies” don’t necessarily mean our entire character is built on lies but may put cracks in our ambassadorship for Christ.
Why? Because our definition of good doesn’t always mean godly.
I read a question that stuck with me… “If good is so obvious, why does Hebrews 5:14 teach that we must have discernment to recognize it?”
What a question to ponder! Especially as we look to God in all His love and wisdom as He points us back to His word, which is good.
Titus 2:7 “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned…”
- In everything. As a representative of Christ what I say and do matters, in the little things and in the big things.
Romans 12:2 reminds me, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
- If I am to prove the good and perfect will of God by living out His truth, a little fib is not good or godly.
That leads me to the beautiful promise from Hebrews 6:18. “So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us.”
- If I am to be Christ like and take refuge in God’s promises, a little fib is not good or godly.
I shared this story because let’s be honest (no little fibs here), obedience to God is always worth it even when or especially when we are called to be vulnerable and transparent for His glory. And if for the briefest of moments, we wonder what others will think…being obedient to Christ still wins.
Lord, praise You for your forgiveness and discipline. May my heart be pure and my tongue forever more speak truth about all matters, even something “little”. May I live a life that reflects Your light and Your expression of good. In Jesus Name. Amen.
This weeks playlist:
Do It Again
Elevation Worship
Tell Me The Truth
Steffany Gretzinger
Gracefully Broken
Tasha Cobbs Leonard
