Being True by Florence Ketring-Harper

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Mar 31, 1904

Being True

By Florence Ketring-Harper

FLORENCE KETRING-HARPER

I HAVE heard the thought expressed that it is impossible for us to be true,—that there are times in the lives of all when they “say what they do not mean, and mean what they do not say.” That this is so with most of us we must admit with sadness; but I do not believe it need be so. I am glad to say that I have known beautiful exceptions, and how much satisfaction and gladness an acquaintance and friendship with them brings to us! It seems at times like an oasis in the desert.

But even though I had never met these exceptions to what appears like a rule among us, yet I should believe they existed; for the Word of God bears me out in the belief that they are possible, and what is possible is also probable.

I believe it is possible for us to be as true as the Author of truth. And we would not for one moment give consent to the suggestion that he was ever vacillating or changeable, that his words and moods could not be depended on. He did not have “moods;” he was ever the “Sun of Righteousness . . . with healing in his wings.” This does not imply that he was always smiling and buoyant; but the Word of God sustains the statement that he was always peaceful and cheerful, and that his presence had peace and rest for all who yielded to its influence. Yet at times he was saddened, and even wept, at earth’s woes. But this did not destroy his peace, nor that of those who were about him.

The sun shines with rainbow beauty through the rain-drop; and even so can our sunlight glow through tears, as his did. Our Saviour and Example was true; he did not appear to be, or for any reason pretend to be, what he was not. What you read in his words and actions you could have read in his heart had it been open to your gaze.

And God’s Word—our guide-book—says, “Ye are complete in him;” and, Ye shall “be filled with all the fulness of God.” If we are “filled” and “complete,” will there be room for anything at any time but truth and sincerity? Can we not be true? Can we not be depended on as he was and is? Why can not our lives flow with a steady current, as his did? Why can not we reflect the steady beams of the Sun of Righteousness,—beams that will bring healing?

Shall we not let the “spirit of truth” into our lives, to make us true,—true to God, true to one another, and true to ourselves? It is not an impossibility; it is a beautiful possibility, and will bring the blessing and peace of God, the confidence, trust, and love of our fellow man, and consequent gladness and sweetness into our own hearts. And thus the way will be so clear for the fulfilment of God’s promise, that we “shall be a blessing.”