Discerning truth and wisdom should be easier in a world with so many technological advances. After all, a simple word search provides us with thousands of possibilities on the internet. We are surrounded by 24-hour a day news broadcasts filled with endless opinions being presented by various hosts. Not to mention, the millions of books written, talk radio, talk shows, and even smart phones which bombard us with information every moment of the day. We say, “enough”! Then we decide to watch a movie or other entertaining show to relax; only to find it is filled with ideologies and hidden agendas attempting to transform our minds to believe that this or that is true. How can we ever really discern truth with so many conflicting ideas bombarding our hearts and minds?
THE DISTORTION OF TRUTH
We might think this is a new phenomenon in which conflicting ideas fight for relativism. However, the liberal philosophy of relativism began with Satan in the Garden of Eden. It was first introduced the moment Satan whispered his provocative questions to Eve. He suggested that what God said might not be absolutely true. Instead, Satan contended that truth was relative. Ever since then, the human race has faced difficulty discerning truth from fiction. The same was true for the early Christian churches. They were being bombarded with false doctrines and ideologies. Because of this, Paul prayed for the church and he wrote them. He reminded them that all the truth of this world can be found in God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Read these words:
That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. Colossians 2:2-4
ABSOLUTE TRUTH VS RELATIVISM
We live in a society that proclaims “truth is relative to one’s perspective. Therefore, there is no absolute truth. ” They argue forcefully that absolutely there is no absolute truth or morality! Obviously, they are arguing against their own ideology by saying it is absolutely true there is no absolute truth. Because those who argue for relativism are the least accepting of any opinions which disagree with theirs; they prove their own disbelief of relativism. Furthermore, nature and science itself screams for absolute truth. So, again the question arises, “How can we know what is true?
BEING GROUNDED IN TRUTH
All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge can be found in God, the Father and Jesus Christ. They created the heavens and the earth as well as every living creature. That is why our search for truth must begin in studying the word of God and in prayer with God. When we accept by faith Jesus Christ as our Savior and King; we acknowledge that God Is the Omnipotent, Sovereign, Creator of the Universe and that we know He rewards those who diligently seek Him. In Him is found all the wisdom and knowledge we would ever need to live our lives to our greatest potential. After all, He knows every detail about me and my life. He loves me. And He knows what is needed to bring joy to my heart.
standing alone AND UNITED
God is all I really need in life. Yet, beautifully, He ordained that we flourish best in community with other believers. He fills our hearts with His love. Then, He gives us the desire to share that same love with others. Then as we join together to study His word, to pray together and to worship Him in praise; we are strengthened to hold fast to the truth that we have found in Him.
HOLDING FIRM TO TRUTH IN A COMPLEX WORLD
Because we are confronted by so many who are trying to beguile us with their lies; we need to follow these five simple steps to know truth. We need wisdom to guide us along this journey of life and that we can find in Jesus Christ.
- Study God’s word every day.
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15
- Memorize Scripture
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O Lord: teach me thy statutes. Psalm 119:11,12
- Spend time each day in Prayer, seeking God’s guidance
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. James 1:5
- Join other believers to study God’s Word and worship Him together.
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works. Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Hebrews 10-24-25
- Be prepared to answer those who do not believe in a manner that is kind and gentle; yet, without denying the truth of the gospel message.
Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. Colossians 4:5-6
CONCLUSION
[bctt tweet=”Trust God to reveal to you the truth in every situation; as you seek God with your heart.” username=”effiedarlene”]
[tweetthis]The Holy Spirit will guide you in wisdom and truth Rest in His guidance.[/tweetthis]
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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.