GOOBER

PRACTICE: Recall a time when you had to face a truth about yourself and the long-term results of doing so.

We are human and often run from the truth as if we were escaping a burning house fire. Why? Truth is often costly. Truth can hurt the ego. What is often forgotten when running from our truth is that the consequences of not facing the truth is just as detrimental as staying in the burning house. A lie will eventually consume and destroy us. Facing our truths will set us free from the deception of lies about ourselves and others. Truth and my liberty (being set free) go together like peanut butter and jelly.

The problem for all of us – no exceptions – is at points in our lives we are so caught up (often unintentional) in ourselves and thus our lies that we are blinded to the truth. Self -checking is healthy but “oh so scary.” But how do I self -check? Take a step outside of self and look at you as a bystander. It is not easy. Ask yourself sometimes, would I be my friend? What do my friends and God see in me? Would I hire me to do the job that I have? Ask yourself the questions you would ask someone else as a way of self-checking.

Here’s another test that helps me get a glimpse of where a lie has usurped a truth in my world. People who love me will never intentionally desire to hurt me – I really believe that with all my heart. So, I listen when they speak. Whatever they say to me about me comes from a place of love and a desire for me to be the best me possible. I owe it to myself, our relationship and them to listen and ponder their insight.

So where does Goober enter this conversation?

Goober is the brand name of peanut butter and jelly mixed together in the same jar. I have a friend who loves it. I think it is the ultimate sign of laziness. However, the concept is a good illustration of truth and liberty. It is all mixed together. Our personal deliverance from our bound places comes when we accept the truth of their place in our lives. Life’s goober – truth and liberty.

John 8:32

PONDER THIS THOUGHT – Truth can be both painful and liberating.