Daily Nugget: Transparency
Psalms 139:23-24 “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” – New International Version
“Dear, there’s something I have to let you know” Blake said turning to Marj as she carefully selected a wedding gown and lifted it. “Hmmm… this looks like a nice one, but I’m not sure about that lace… “ she mused, without lifting her eyes off the gown, “Yes, what do you have in mind?”
“I was once convicted and jailed for two months for misappropriating some funds at the organisation I used to work for”, Blake stuttered, “Just thought you should know”
“What?!!!” Marj turned to Blake in shock “One week to our wedding, is when you choose to let me know that you are a criminal!”
“I’m not a criminal”, Blake defended himself, “it was all a misunderstanding”, he started to explain, but knew this conversation with Marj was headed south, from the crestfallen look on her face.
Key to the success of any marriage relationship is utmost honesty. True, no one is perfect, but trust is built when there is absolute disclosure. A relationship or marriage that is founded on transparency fosters better intimacy and reduced conflict. It ensures that the couple has the right set of expectations about each other, and builds a sense of security in the relationship.
Similarly the same attitude of transparency is required in our relationship with God. The truth is that nothing is hidden from God, but we must evaluate ourselves daily to ensure we have a right standing with God. We must subject everything to the illuminating light of God’s Word, even as we pray regularly and ask Him to reveal any hidden sin.
Hebrews 4:12-13 “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.”