Basis of Evaluation: Truth

 

     If I really want evaluation, I need to be ready to hear my weaknesses as well as my strengths. That can be painful, but helpful.  “Open rebuke is better than love carefully concealed. Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful” (Proverbs 27:5, 6, NKJV). 

 

      A youth minister was told by an elder that he was doing a good job and was “right on target.” Within two weeks, during an elders’ meeting, he was told that his services were no longer needed. There was no explanation. Ultimate evaluation—firing—with no reason denies the person the opportunity to learn and to understand.

 

     Even during those difficult times, where there is to be stern rebuke or a parting of the ways, it is good to speak truth in love.  When the elders are firing the preacher or the preacher is firing the church, it is good to be truthful and kind.

 

     Ephesians 4:29 is good advice:  "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear" (ESV).

...to be continued...