Along with many statements of fact you can hear hesitation and uncertainty. It is as if the person is testing the statement out, wearing it to see if others will accept it as fact. Even with time the level of confidence doesn’t increase. There are many things we say we believe that we are not sure are really true. We say one thing but our body language screams something quite different. Those who know us well easily read between the lines and, as a result, know that they should not place any trust or confidence in the words they hear.
This isn’t new. People have knows for centuries when others are telling the truth. The way our eyes shift, lips quiver, body turns all says something about what we know. It is difficult to hide; even if we could the receiver’s body knows the truth about which we speak. The measure comes in getting stronger versus growing weaker. Truth always brings strength and growth with it. When John first testified of Jesus there were no doubts in the minds of those who heard his words.
“Here he is, God's Passover Lamb! He forgives the sins of the world! This is the man I've been talking about, ‘the One who comes after me but is really ahead of me.’” (John 1.30)
What isn’t easily captured in the words is John’s confidence. He knew he was speaking the truth. He knew and others heard his words with assurance and power.
It is almost too easy to talk of things where we are ignorant. Politicians have raised this art of a fine science but it is easy to get caught up in the process. Look around at those who struggle to know what is right and wrong, positive for others and destructive. Our words can help others growth or hold them back. We have a choice yet it rests on our experience. Will we walk with confidence? Will we listen to the truth that comes from experience? God offers you and me a hand and Spirit. Accept with confidence.
