Being forthright is to be frank, candid, blunt, honest or “straight talk.”

Forthrightness does not need to be harsh or condemning.  It does need to be frank, candid and honest.

Forthrightness states the obvious.  It examines and evaluates previous promises which were made with good intentions.

The Corinthian church had made a promise the previous year to be generous in giving to the needs of fellow believers in dire need in Jerusalem.  The second letter to the Corinthian church was forthright in reminding them of their zealous promise.
(2 Corinthians 9:1-2)

Couriers were sent to get the promised generous donation ready to send to Jerusalem.  The Corinthian church was forewarned in this letter to be ready.
(2 Corinthians 9:3)

The Corinthian church would be shamed if they gave less than what they had promised or if they gave nothing at all.
(2 Corinthians 9:4)

Forthrightness emphasized their previous promise of generosity and asked not to hold back because of second thoughts for their own benefit.
(2 Corinthians 9:5)

Summation concerning forthrightness:
1-Forthrightness is honest in evaluating promises made

2-Forthrightness is stating facts boldly and with love

3-Forthrightness keeps the facts on the table – not hidden under the surface

4-Forthrightness is necessary for an effective ministry

5-Forthrightness emphasizes previous promises made

~ Take it to heart ~

  Do I keep my promises of generosity?  OR  Do I second guess what I at first promised for my own benefit?

Am I honest – candid – forthright when speaking and working with others?