We long for true connection—to be known and accepted for who we really are, not just for an image we project. Honesty. Authenticity. Being fully known. These are some of the core pillars of what it means to live together as Christ’s church. But because vulnerability is scary, it’s easy to settle for sharing most things – say, only 98% - and we pat ourselves on the back for being so open and honest. However, that tiny bit we neglect to share is actually the biggest thing: it is the information that would truly make us known, get to the root of the issue at hand, or require real change in our lives. Whether you're trying to get to the root of a specific issue, learn to trust, start fresh, or simply be known, holding back will hold you back.
That stuff you hold back and hide is what we like to refer to as “the last 2 percent.” It’s whatever is left after the 98 percent that you are willing to share.
The last 2 percent could be anything, depending on the person or even the day. It might be:
Or any other number of things. Whatever you are too prideful to admit or too fearful to say, that is your last 2 percent.
Christ calls us to live in the light (1 John 1:7), confess to each other (James 5:16), care for each other (Galatians 6:10) and reconcile to each other (Matthew 5:23-24). Following these commands requires us to be willing to fully share what is going on in their hearts and lives. It is clear throughout Scripture that God’s ideal is for us to live together authentically: that we would be free (John 8:36), not hiding secrets (Luke 8:17) or living in fear (2 Timothy 1:7), but rather speaking the truth to each other in love (Ephesians 4:15).
Sometimes we don’t want to share because we’re protecting an image. This is often true of church leaders, who feel pressured to set a good example and represent the church well. But one of the most powerful ways you can lead by example is to embrace authenticity. When members see it modeled by their leaders, the culture of the church will begin to change from the top down.
Although it may feel risky, there are many reasons why we should share the last 2 percent:
Of course, you should use discretion in deciding when, how, and where to share your last 2 percent. Scripture warns against careless words (Proverbs 12:18). We’re called to be slow to speak (James 1:19) and to use wisdom and discernment in what and when we share. Sensitive subjects should be addressed in the right context, to the right person, and with the right heart. For example, if someone has sinned against you, go to them first, in private (Matthew 18:15). Pray for wisdom (James 1:5) in how you go about it. Sharing the last 2 percent should be an act of love; the ultimate intention is to serve.
Encourage others to share. Among our own staff, we often end performance reviews or hard conversations by asking if the other person has “any last 2 percent” that remains unsaid. It’s become a part of our culture, so everyone knows what the term means and why it is important.
When someone trusts you enough to vulnerably share their 2% with you, respond with the same compassion and grace you would want to be shown. Because God loves us fully, despite knowing all our failures, we’re called to love each other the same way (1 John 4:7-12). Create a culture where it’s safe to share. If someone confesses that they’ve wronged you, be quick to extend forgiveness (Luke 17:3-4). Do your part by owning whatever role you may have played in a conflict and examining your own heart for anything you need to share. If a believer is weighed down by shame, remind them of God’s grace—that there is no condemnation for those in Christ (Romans 8:1), and no condemnation from you, either.
Sharing the last 2% is hard and uncomfortable at first. Stuffing the truth can seem like the easier route. But in reality, there is no easy route. That unspoken 2% will eventually catch up with you. Maybe no one else will find out, but your heart will bear the cost. You won’t have peace. You won’t resolve the bitterness of hidden conflict. You won’t be truly known or accepted, and you won’t be fully loving toward the people you care about.
On the other hand, the more you share your 2%, the easier and more natural it becomes. You’ll experience oneness with your spouse and authentic acceptance in your church. That doesn’t mean smooth sailing—relationships are messy, and trouble is guaranteed in this life (John 16:33). People won’t always respond the way you hope. But you can rest knowing you’ve been faithful to do your part—not just the easy 98%.
Is there someone you need to resolve conflict with or share the last 2% today?