“How’s it going today?” That is a generic question we ask one another. Of course, no one wants to blurt out all kinds of woes in their life because the question isn’t meant to solicit such a response. It’s more of a causal greeting like saying “Hello” than it is a heartfelt concern for others. There was a guy that used to respond to that question with his canned answer, “Super fantastic but it’s getting better”. I always wanted to punch him in the nose and repeat the question to see if he would modify is answer.

If we are completely honest with ourselves, we don’t have it ALL together ALL the time. We ALL have problems that weigh us down. We ALL struggle with temptation and sin that makes us feel lousy in our relationship with our Lord Jesus. In those times it is best not to run from the truth but let the truth be told. First and foremost, we talk to God. Then we need to share with a confidant or accountability partner. The key is not to live our lives pretending everything is always good – because it is not. Nobody gets through this life without ups AND downs – they come in a package deal called Reality.

The great thing about being a Christian is that we can rejoice always (Philippians 4:4). That doesn’t mean we are always happy; however, the presence of the Lord protects us from crashing and burning, and we have peace because Jesus is always with us. It is interesting in II Corinthians 6:10 when Paul writes, “as sorrowful yet always rejoicing”. Apparently always having joy is not the same as being happy all the time.

Let the truth be told – first to God and then to someone you trust. Read Romans 12:9-21. Then listen to Truth Be Told by Matthew West.

Romans 12:9-21

Love must be free of hypocrisy. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor, not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Never repay evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all people. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.