Biblical Answer

The Importance of Honesty with Our Feelings

Honesty with our feelings is crucial for our emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. As the Bible states, "A fool vents all his feelings, but a wise man holds them back" (Proverbs 29:11). This verse highlights the importance of self-control and emotional humility. When we choose to be honest with our feelings, we acknowledge the truth that lies before our eyes, and this acceptance is a natural consequence of the facts. However, it's essential to note that honesty doesn't mean being completely frank in every comment. This can hurt people and is not a wise or loving approach.

The Dangers of Unchecked Feelings and Self-Honesty

On the other hand, a lack of self-honesty can be profoundly damaging. When we fail to acknowledge our true feelings and emotions, we can become trapped in a cycle of self-deception and denial. This can lead to emotional and mental disturbances, causing harm to ourselves and others. Similarly, being brutally honest without love can be destructive and hurtful. As the Bible teaches, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a picture of silver" (Proverbs 25:11). This verse emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth in love, rather than simply expressing our feelings without consideration for others.

The Necessity of Emotional Wealth and Humility

To be honest with our feelings, we need to cultivate emotional wealth and humility. This means acknowledging our true emotions and vulnerabilities, rather than trying to suppress or deny them. We also need to recognize that our feelings and opinions are not always reliable guides to truth. As Scripture does not provide a definitive answer to this question, we must act in faith and trust in the Lord's guidance. By being honest with our feelings and cultivating emotional wealth and humility, we can develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and others, leading to greater emotional intelligence, spiritual growth, and a more loving and compassionate approach to life.