“Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool.”
If you want a clear picture of this verse think Judas. Even the mention of the name brings visions and feelings of dark and evil betrayal. When someone acts like a friend but holds feelings of hatred or bitterness or even betrayal in their heart it is a deception that will not end well. Both people can be hurt in the end. There is no way to hide true feelings forever and it typically slips out as slanderous talk behind that persons back. It is always best to not only speak honestly but to act honestly. If we have a legitimate dislike of a persons lifestyle we should certainly not reinforce it by going along. However slandering another, even when true, is a despicable way to live. There is plenty of scripture cautioning us about our words especially destructive ones. We are to speak words of encouragement and that are uplifting. When we speak truth it is only to be done in love. Otherwise we are to stay quiet. Hatred is wrong but if we do feel it don’t pretend otherwise. Just stay clear. Today be honest, kind and truthful. #BeTheEdge
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” Ephesians 4:15 NIV
