Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Tighten your belt

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist. Ephesians 6:14

Truth supports the other weapons of spiritual warfare by providing clarity and context. Yes, God’s truth is a reality check that protects from foolish diversions, and devilish ensnarements. Wisdom from above gives courage and conviction below to stand firm for what’s right. Moral resolve results in a life girded with the belt of truth. Jesus spoke with authority because He based His teaching on truth as defined by God. Thus, spiritual armor buckled by the belt of truth is secure.
 
Beloved, it is necessary to know and understand truth as taught in Holy Scripture as that is the only real truth their is. The Bible is clear: The Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28), The Greatest Commandment (Matthew 22:37-39), The  Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) and the The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) are foundational for those who are really serious followers of Christ. The Apostle Paul’s Epistles dig deeper into the why, behind what is true. Yes, Jesus is truth, so to know Him is to know truth, as Jesus is the word (the manifested and expressed thought of God in the flesh read John 1 if you don't believe me and chew on the truth). Freedom equals understanding truth as he who the son (truth) sets free, is free indeed (John 8:36).

We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know Him who is true. And we are in Him who is true by being in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. 1 John 5:20
 
Furthermore, the belt of truth is a reminder to always be truthful, especially when it costs something. You may need to forfeit a financial opportunity, because truthfully, it is not a right fit for you and your family. You may fear your forthright response may jeopardize a friendship, but better to be clear in the beginning, so there are no surprises in the end. Honesty is heaven’s mandate. Therefore, tell the truth, so  all the facts are apparent to everyone. Truth tellers eventually and always earn respect.

Lastly, speak the truth in love. Direct language laced with  grace solicits a grateful and rational response. The spirit of our words is as important as their accuracy.  In other words it's not just what you say, but how you say it, as how we say what we say prepares the listener for the truth. So,we need to ask the Lord for an extra measure of humility and grace, especially if we are gifted in wisdom and discernment. The belt of truth clarifies our beliefs, so we know who we are in Christ and how we are able to stand firm by faith.

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