Christian Devotional – November 21, 2017

Do we give honest feedback? Or, do we tell people what they want to hear? In reading through the rest of Proverbs chapter 28, we see this verse in and among the others.

He who rebukes a man will afterward find more favor Than he who flatters with the tongue.
Proverbs 28:23 NASB
https://bible.com/bible/100/pro.28.23.NASB

When we get asked our opinion, are we honest and do we tell the truth? Or do we just say what we think the other person wants to hear? Do we try to flatter people just so they will lime us, or promote us? This can be seen often in the business world, but is by no means limited to our professional lives. We can be just as guilty of this with family members or friends as well.

It can be difficult to give honest feedback, especially when we know it is not what they other person wants to hear. Yet, if the person never gets told where there opportunities are, they never have a chance to grow. Now, we must remember what Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 and that we are to speak the truth in love. Feedback should be given with the motivation of helping others improve, not to tear them down. Are we willing to give honest feedback, in love, to others to help them grow?