Embracing Uncomfortable Truths

A Path to Freedom

In a world filled with information and ideologies, we often grapple with conflicting narratives and subjective realities. It’s no secret that the pursuit of truth can be a challenging and uncomfortable journey. As the saying goes, “The truth which makes men free is for the most part the truth which men prefer not to hear.”Hebert Agar.

As parents, how can you help your child understand this very important concept in life? Let’s dive in and explore the wisdom behind this quote and teach your children how embracing uncomfortable truths will lead to a deeper understanding.

1. Explain the Discomfort of Truth

One of the greatest challenges in our search for truth is our escape from discomfort. We tend to prefer narratives that align with our preconceived notions and beliefs, even if they are based on subjective reality rather than objective truth. Confronting uncomfortable truths can be emotionally taxing, leading many to avoid them altogether.

2. Addressing Confirmation Bias

Explain to your child that confirmation bias is the tendency to seek and interpret information that confirms our existing beliefs. And oftentimes can lead us further down the rabbit hole of subjective reality. We become trapped in echo chambers, shielded from differing perspectives and alternative truths.

3. Elaborate on the concept of stagnation and Division

When we choose to ignore or dismiss uncomfortable truths, we hinder personal growth and perpetuate immaturity, and lack of awareness. Our refusal to acknowledge uncomfortable truths will prevent us from addressing pressing issues and finding common ground with others.

So, how can you equip your child to move forward and have a better view of this topic?

1. Teach them to Embrace Humility

To break free from subjective reality, we must first embrace humility. Humility allows us to acknowledge that we do not possess all the answers and that our beliefs may be subject to revision. The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 11:2, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.”

2. Teach them to seek truth with an open heart

We ought to approach the pursuit of truth with an open heart and a willingness to accept uncomfortable realities. Jesus Himself declared in John 8:32, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” This freedom comes from our readiness to accept and integrate truths, no matter how uncomfortable they may be.

3. Let them know they ought to challenge Confirmation Bias

Recognize the danger of confirmation bias and actively seek out diverse perspectives. Engaging with differing viewpoints can help our understanding of subjective reality and lead us closer to objective truth.

What would the benefits really look like in the life of your child?

1. Personal Growth

Embracing uncomfortable truths is a catalyst for personal growth. As we confront our biases and preconceptions, we become more self-aware and open to transformative change. Proverbs 9:9 tells us, “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.”

2. Healthy Relationships

Acknowledging uncomfortable truths fosters empathy and understanding. We bridge divides and cultivate better and healthier relationships by seeking common ground with others. Romans 15:5 reminds us, “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another.”

3. Freedom from Illusion

The greatest benefit of embracing uncomfortable truths is the freedom it brings. We free ourselves from the illusion of a carefully curated subjective reality and step into the liberating light of objective truth. As 2 Corinthians 3:17 proclaims, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”

The path to freedom lies in our willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. These truths, though initially unsettling, hold the key to personal growth, unity among individuals, and liberation from the confines of subjective reality.

By following the wisdom of Scripture and cultivating humility and obedience, we can embark on a transformative journey toward the truth that sets us free.