“I have a lot of respect for genuine people. They might not be perfect, but at least they are not pretending to be.” Anthony Gucciardi

 Lord, help me never put on an act, or do something for show. Purge all pretense from my words and actions. I would be a “what you see is what you get” kind of guy. No exaggerations, no pretending, no advertising, no politics, just me being me, but at the same time, genuinely trying to be like you.  

“Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 8/23/2020

”This above all- to thine own self be true.” Shakespeare

The degree that I am honest with myself affects my honesty with others. How can I be honest with God or with anybody for that matter,  if I cannot be honest with myself. Nurture honesty within your own soul, but don’t stop there. It is one thing to admit to yourself a shortcoming, and another to do something about it. Real change is possible only in the air of honest confession.  

“Whatsoever things are true…think about such things” Phil.4.9 Conversations Within” ts 8/22/2020

Get a handle on it instead of flying off the handle.

A knee jerk reaction is usually a reflex, not the result of careful reflection. Reflect on your response to others; don’t just “fly off the handle” and throw words. Saying and doing the first thing that comes to mind, is more than not the last thing the Spirit of Christ would have us say or do. Respond with the actions of love; don’t react with uncontrolled emotion.  

“Speak the truth in love.” Eph.4.15 Conversations Within” ts 8/20/2020

“Hate can only exist where people refuse to speak out against it.” Yasmine Galenorn

There is little doubt that holding one’s tongue is considered wise, but wisdom is knowing when to speak and when not to. There are certainly times when we are compelled to speak up for what is right and condemn what is wrong.. But justice is only served when we have our facts straight and our words are backed up by action. We should be sure to get it right before we attempt to make it right.   

“Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Prov.31.19 Conversations Within” ts 8/19/2020

“Talk is cheap.” Adage

 Instead of talking about the need for change, we can work for it. Actions are better than mere words. Do, don’t dawdle with discourse. Don’t wear your opinions on your sleeve, roll your sleeves up and get to work. Don’t waste your time complaining, put your energy into projects that create positive change.  

"Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." 1John 3.18 Conversations Within” ts 8/18/2020