Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – February 3, 2015
Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” “What is truth?” retorted Pilate. John 18:37-38
As a 12 year old child I went through confirmation classes at my church. The purpose of this six month program was education on the history of the church and spiritual formation. I gained a lot of head knowledge, but very little heart knowledge. The truth I learned about God and the church educated my mind, but did not convert my soul. I was informed, but not transformed. My conversations about truth in Christ did not initially lead to my conversion to Christ. This was the beginning of my faith journey that prepared me to embrace Jesus as the Truth at age 19.
The Roman leader Pilate was threatened by the power of Jesus—the accused King of the Jews. Pilate had no concept of a kingdom not of this earth, so he categorized Christ as another rebel zealous about His cause. He perceived Jesus as a political threat to the status quo and to the stability of Jewish society. Rhetorically, Pilate asked Jesus for the definition of truth as he turned and appealed to the mob for the truth. Truth is held loosely by those driven by their own desires. But, those who desire God are motivated to know the whole truth and experience the living truth.
“Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment” (Proverbs 12:19).
Do you take time to verify the truth? It’s easy in the moment to believe something that sounds true. Emotions have a way of concluding, before confirming. Perhaps a persuasive person spoke to you with conviction—convinced you—only for you to learn later that he did not have the full story. Wisdom takes the time to process information before it makes a recommendation. In the heat of a discussion a cool head comes up with the best decision. Objectively seek out the truth and do not be swayed by emotional arguments. Truth perseveres, so be educated and validate.
What is the truth about Jesus? Do you define Him as God or only a good man? It is imperative we gain our understanding of God from God. Since Jesus is the Truth—let’s seek Him to help us unpack truth. Without the Holy Spirit’s illumination we only have information. But when we bow with a humble heart to comprehend and apply the truth—the Spirit will show us and guide us. Jesus testifies of the truth, so the more intimate we are with Him the more we embrace truth. Lastly, use truth as a weapon against evil and a facilitator for good. Truth is a tool for God’s will.
“Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long” (Psalm 25:5).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, educate me in Your ways, so I can show others the way through Jesus.
Related Readings: Psalm 52:3; Proverbs 14:25; Hebrews 5:12; Titus 1:1; 1 John 4:6
Post/Tweet this today: Wisdom takes the time to process information before it makes a recommendation. #whatistruth #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: The Truth project is a compelling training / discipleship resource
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