We often show others what we want them to see and hide the rest. But sometimes we’re so good at hiding that we miss even parts of who we are. Self-honesty calls for a fearless inventory of our very selves.
It’s one thing to maintain our inner privacy. And in some relationships it’s actually very appropriate and wise to filter ourselves. Not everyone is safe to share everything with.
But when our filter works so well that we’re hidden even from ourselves, we’re at risk of being blindsided by our shadow desires.
For instance, sexual sins are often not about the sex. Rather, deeper desires tend to be projected onto sex. And we fall victim to the temptation because we’re not aware of the deep desires of our heart.
This is how the deception of sin works. Legitimate desires are promised through illegitimate means.
And when we’re not aware of our legitimate desires we’re more prone to take the bait of sin.
Self-honesty doesn’t eliminate temptation. But it does allow us to be more proactive in resisting it.
And to be sure, being honest with ourselves includes accepting many wild, seemingly foolish, and even outright undesirable parts of who we are.
But this fearless inventory leaves no stone unturned.
No one is done any favors by denying, downplaying, or pretending our desires don’t matter.
And sin is knocking at the door ready to pounce when we’re not honest with ourselves about what we really want.
Being honest doesn’t require us to act on every desire – only to be present with them so they don’t operate blindly and take us out.
Regularly inventory your heart.
What are your deep desires?
Be honest with yourself and live well with all the deep movements of your heart.
Photo by William Krause on Unsplash
