This one really seems pretty simple. Nine words that express a basic truth. When this verse says “a right answer” it literally means “plain words” which it uses as opposed to a deceptive or obscured meaning. This is so valued in a world of half-truths and innuendo. Clear, direct communication is so desired that when someone communicates that way, even if it is not what we want to hear, they quite literally own our heart, our affection. It is truly like a cool drink of water on a hot Alabama August day. Years ago, I eliminated the phrases ‘to tell the truth,’ ‘to be honest,’ or anything else like them. Used in communicating they imply that at other times I must be being less then truthful. It was difficult. For a while I would hear it in my head before I said it, pause and start my sentence without them. Honesty requires no reinforcements or clarification. Today mean what you say and say what you mean. No more, no less.
“…but your yes is to be yes, and your no, no, so that you may not fall under judgment.” James 5:12b NASB
