Uncovering Virtue: 7 Biblical Clues to Spot Authentic and Sincere Souls!
How do you recognize genuine and honest people in your life? As the popular cliche says, “Real people are like diamonds; they are rare. False people are like stones. They are scattered everywhere.” This means genuine and honest people are rare and valuable. They are the ones who tell you the truth, even when it hurts, the ones who keep their promises, even when it costs them. Also, they are the ones who show you who they are, even when it risks rejection. Indeed, they are the ones who make you feel seen, heard, and understood, even when you disagree.
But how can you recognize genuine and honest people in your life? How can you tell them apart from the fake and dishonest ones who may pretend to be nice but have ulterior motives or hidden agendas? There is no definite list or formula to determine if you have genuine and honest people in your life. However, some signs and pieces of evidence that might indicate that you have them are the following;
Speak their minds
Genuine and honest people are not afraid to express their opinions and perspectives, even if they are unpopular or controversial. They do not sugarcoat or censor their words to please others or avoid conflict. Moreover, they do not lie or exaggerate to impress others or gain approval. They say what they mean and mean what they say. Also, they respect opinions, but they do not compromise their integrity.
Therefore, each must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to their neighbor, for we are all members of one body. (Ephesians 4:25, NIV) For example, genuine and honest people will tell you if they disagree with you on an issue, but they will do so respectfully and constructively. Likewise, they will not pretend to agree with you to avoid arguments or to make you like them more.
Respond to internal expectations, not external ones.
Undoubtedly, genuine and honest people are guided by their values, beliefs, standards, and expectations, not by those of others. They do not conform to the norms or trends of society but follow their inner compass. They also do not seek validation or recognition from others but find satisfaction and fulfillment in themselves. They do not let others dictate their choices or actions but take responsibility for their own lives.
I know, my God, that You examine our hearts and rejoice when You find integrity there. You know I have done all this with good motives, and I have watched Your people offer their gifts willingly and joyously. (1 Chronicles 29:17, NLT) For instance, genuine and honest people will pursue their passion and purpose in life, even if it means going against expectations. Also, they will not let others pressure them into doing something they do not want to or believe in.
Content and grateful
Genuine and honest people are not complainers but appreciators. They do not focus on what they lack but on what they have. Additionally, they do not take things for granted but express gratitude for them and do not compare themselves to others but celebrate their uniqueness. Apart from this, they do not chase happiness elsewhere but find joy in the present moment.
I have learned to be content, whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. (Philippians 4:11-12, NIV)
To illustrate, genuine and honest people will thank God for every blessing in their life, big or small. They will not envy others for what they have or do not have. Also, they will appreciate themselves for who they are and what they can do.
At peace with God and others
They are not in conflict with God or others but in harmony with them. Similarly, they do not violate His will and word but obey and honor them. In addition, they do not harm themselves or others through their work but bless and serve them. Importantly, they do not cause division, strife, or resentment through their work but promote harmony, unity, and love.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts as members of one body you were called to peace. (Colossians 3:15, NIV). Specifically, genuine and honest people will seek to please God and do His will in their work, not their own. They will not cheat, lie, steal, or exploit others by their work. More importantly, they will not gossip, slander, or criticize others for their work. They will also encourage support and help others through their work.
Seek guidance and direction.
Genuine and honest people are not self-sufficient but God-dependent and God-sufficient. They do not trust their wisdom, preferences, or feelings alone but in His will and plan for their lives. Moreover, they do not make decisions without consulting God but pray for His guidance and direction. They especially do not ignore His voice or resist His lead but listen to Him and follow Him.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways, submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV). For example, genuine and honest people will ask God for wisdom and discernment in every situation, not rely on their opinions or assumptions. They will seek His approval and confirmation, not with the world’s applause or affirmation, and will obey His commands and instructions, not their desires or impulses.
Open to correction and change
They are not stubborn, proud, or defensive but humble, teachable, and responsive. They do not think they know it all or have it all figured out, but admit their limitations and mistakes. Furthermore, they do not reject His discipline or rebuke but welcome His correction and instruction. Undoubtedly, genuine people do not resist His work but cooperate with His transformation and renewal.
And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses His son? It says, ‘My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines the one He loves and chastens everyone He accepts as His son. (Hebrews 12:5-6, NIV)
Genuine and honest people will acknowledge their faults and failures, not deny or justify them. Without a doubt, they will repent of their sins and wrongdoings, not repeat or excuse them. Also, they will learn from their experiences and feedback, not ignore or dismiss them.
They experience blessing and favor.
Ultimately, they are not unlucky or unfortunate but blessed and favored by God. They do not struggle or suffer in vain but see His hand of provision, protection, and power in their lives. They do not doubt His grace, mercy, or love but experience His forgiveness, acceptance, and care. They do not miss His purpose, plan, or promise for their lives but fulfill His calling, mission, and destiny.
May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, show the work of our hands. (Psalm 90:17, NIV). Genuine and honest people will witness God’s miracles and wonders, not just hear about them, and will receive His gifts and rewards, not just ask for them. They will undoubtedly achieve their goals and objectives, not just dream about them.
If you can relate to these seven signs, you can be confident that you have genuine and honest people in your life. It is only some days that you will meet real ones. So, cherish, appreciate, support, learn, and be one of them because you will be happier, healthier, and holier.
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