One of the greatest lessons we can learn is just this – when people reveal themselves, believe them. This one simple truth can save you untold grief; perhaps even your life.
Looking backward it becomes plain to see how others who did not have our good at heart first revealed themselves in words strangely straight and true. Yet somehow we overlooked the truth that could have saved us from an unwise path, full of heartache at the least.
We were blind because we wanted something – to be loved, approved, employed – because in the kindness of our own hearts we could not fathom the darkness that lurks behind the wounds of broken souls. Sometimes we are prone to believe the best of others to the point of our own demise. If only we had listened when they said…
I’m selfish.
There’s something wrong with me.
I’m a drunk.
I’m a bad person.
The devil comes out of me when I get mad.
Bad things happen to people who work for me. You’ll see.
Intentionally entering into close contact or moving forward into relationship with someone who has warned you in advance is like climbing through the pony fence with the sign that reads: Beware: I bite! It’s not worth the risk.
Let’s choose to be wise. We must wake up and realize when we’ve been WARNED.
Amen.
Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge, for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you… ~ Proverbs 22:17-18
QUESTION: What warnings have been spoken to you that if you had believed them from the start would have saved you endless grief if you’d just understood this truth; when people reveal themselves, believe them?
Terri says
great article Joanna, thanks for the always timely reminder to really hear what people say
Joanna Morgan says
Thanks Terri,
Wish I’d learned the lesson years sooner. My hope and prayer is that others will listen more closely and avoid some of the trips into the ditch where I learned the ropes. Thanks for continuing on the journey with me!