Is it possible to be too authentic? Authenticity is very desirable, but you have encountered people who used it as a basis to utter anything that was on their mind. Yet my word says only a fool utters all his mind, and even a fool, when he holds his peace, is esteemed as a man of understanding. You can be authentic and hold your peace. Consider my own example at trial. I was surrounded by many accusers yet I remained silent. Have you noticed that those with real wisdom are sparing with their words, and that when the time is right they can capture the essence of a matter with a brief concise statement? You do well to use your words as a wise master builder, and avoid the danger that is present in a multitude of words. 

How do you see the world? When I created it I said that it was good. But shortly after that there was the fall. So is the world still good? This is more than an abstract hypothetical question for theologians. It affects the way you approach life. If the fall dominates your view of the world around you, then the world is a scary and dangerous place, and fear is a reasonable response. If you believe that my declaration of goodness still dominates, then you can go forth into an unknown future with confidence that there is purpose and a guiding benevolence that watches over it (and you). You are not currently living in Paradise, but don’t let the fall dominate your view of life and diminish it. 

Do you want to hear my voice? What questions do you want me to answer for you? Do you want me to answer doctrinal questions for you that theologians have wrestled with for centuries? Do you want me to lay out the rest of your life for you? These would be too great for you to bear. Do you want investment tips or the winning lottery numbers? Don’t make this hard for both of us. You could always ask me what you could do right now to advance my redemptive purpose in your current situation. I’m always pleased to answer this. Ask me expecting a reply, and see what happens.

Do you view travel in terms of round trips; going to a desired destination and then coming home again? One way trips are more significant, for they imply a permanent change. Do you see your life as a one way journey of spiritual transformation? Disasters and misfortunes are catalysts for this change. Yet how many people encountering such difficulties only respond by wanting to get back to conditions before the event? This falls short of the model of a one way trip and is like returning home before reaching your destination. Stop trying to go back. Inquire of me to find out what gifts I have for you in the new conditions, and see how this facilitates your onward journey toward your ultimate destination.