Truth Declared

It is only Jesus whose life and words have the authority to define what truth is. He is the only man who has ever lived who’s perceptions remained undistorted by Satan, the god of this world. All those who are interested in knowing truth will ultimately come to Him - either in this life, gladly, or when they face Him as judge.

Jeremiah described the human heart as being ‘desperately wicked’ (Jeremiah 17:9). It is out of the heart that deceptions flow. In recent months I have been surprised, and even shocked, at the times when I have heard people say things which were clearly and obviously wrong, but which they passionately wanted other people to believe was the truth. It’s amazing how self-interest and a desire to protect one’s own reputation changes a person’s perception of things that have happened - even to the extent that people can finish up calling good evil and evil good.

At the heart of all self-interest is pride. None of us like’s to admit anything that will diminish our reputation in the eyes of others. We see that process being worked out at every level of society - from national and international government right down to the individuals we know, and sometimes know well.

One might have thought that inside the Body of Christ we would be exempt from such behaviour. But, sadly, that is far from reality. Even believers can try and protect themselves by giving people a distorted view of their behaviour and the reasons behind their decisions. Pride, self-protection and fear of losing one’s reputation all contribute to ungodly motives arising from the heart, which can even malign others in order to try and keep ourselves from being exposed.

It is only Jesus that could say without any danger of self-deception, that what he says is true. That’s why we must listen to Him. It is only as we choose to walk in His ways, and allow Him to expose the inner, hidden motives of our hearts, that we can expect our lives to carry the loving authority of the Saviour. He knew exactly what He was doing when He gave His life for you and me. He, who is truth was being sacrificed for those whose hearts have been deceived. If only our world leaders would once again recognise Jesus for who He is!

Prayer: Thank you Jesus for showing the world and showing me what truth really is. Help me to always filter what I say through the net of your love – so that the things that are untrue will be eliminated and my life will be a demonstration of unconditional truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.