Aug 22, 20222 min read

Can You Handle the Truth?

What is truth? Pilate asked this question to Jesus about 2000 years ago. People still wonder what truth really is and how it can be applied. In many respects, the idea of truth is under attack. I want us to consider what it means to speak the truth, think the truth, and live the truth. What does it mean to us personally? How can we grow and practice self control when it comes to the truth?

ARE YOU SPEAKING THE TRUTH ABOUT YOURSELF? Self-esteem is a popular topic right now. Why? It seems strange to me since the world says “take pride in yourself.” (I should note that is a thought contrary to the Bible.) The Christ-like response is simply “humble yourself” (James 4:7). However, many people continually downgrade themselves with their words and their thoughts believing that is biblical humility. It's not. We need to see ourselves through God's eyes and speak honestly about ourselves - acknowledging the good and the bad. When we are really honest, we can't help but be humble before God.

ARE YOU THINKING THE TRUTH ABOUT YOURSELF? I love it when Paul says, “... whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things" (Philippians 4:8). Meditate on the Scriptures the show that the Lord gives forgiveness. Your strength in Jesus, your new heart, and all the riches of Christ should build you up! Go extreme if you need to . . . . tape positive passages your mirror, underline them in your Bible, memorize them, and place them all over your home.Remember that “the truth will make you free” (John 8:32).

ARE YOU LIVING THE TRUTH YOURSELF? We may know the truth, and we may think about it, but do we live it?James said, “prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves” (James 1:22). Don't fan the flames of old feelings and desires. If you don't want to struggle with lust, don't go to enticing movies. If you don’t want to struggle with gambling, don’t visit the casinos. Be careful about the influence you receive from television, music, books, and friends. Practice the simple things that will rebuild your life. “Put on the NEW SELF, which in the likeness of God has been created in RIGHTEOUSNESS and HOLINESS OF THE TRUTH” (Ephesians 4:24).