Simplicity is not in minimization but in focusing on the important matter God has before us, self-reflecting to see if we are in His will and confessing our failures to be able to grow emotionally and Spiritually is the key to the Christian life.
Those who do not confess anything but pay attention to external appearances only without regard to the inner person will never grow.
Wise and humble people are not threatened by criticism, they are calm while evaluating if the criticism has merit. If it does not then they dismiss it, if it does then they make adjustments. They do not fall apart in a heap on the floor when challenged about anything. They know the truth and have no need of validation from others for what they believe or what actions they take.
When a person's focus is on appearing perfect or special they remain infantile in their thinking. Every thought, action and reaction is based on the tedious chore of pretending to be above everyone else.
The most joyful people I have known were those who could quickly admit a flaw to improve themselves. There is no improvement without the confession of sins and flaws.
1 John 1:8-10 "…8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar, and His word is not in us."
James 5:16
"16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. A prayer of a righteous person, when it is brought about, can accomplish much."
The only quality relationship is built on mutual transparency and authentic and humble knowledge about ourselves as well as a desire to know our friend.
Those who are playing the game of perfect will never have close relationships. In fact, those who want to be seen as perfect will continually lose relationships as soon as a disagreement arises. When there is no desire to understand the thinking, the hurts, and joys of a friend there can be no closeness. In fact, these relationships are fraught with continual drama.
When a relationship is foundationally superficial without depth or love for one another there is nothing to keep it afloat when something unpleasant happens. A leaky boat will not remain afloat without something to plug the hole.
James 5:16 "16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."
If we are to grow in holiness we must be willing to admit the things about ourselves that need work. If we do not admit them to God or anyone else then we remain in our emotional and spiritual weakness.
