Truth

You will know the truth and the truth will set you free.   John 8:32

Diogenes wandered the streets of ancient  Athens and Corinth carrying a lantern that burned a candle within it even during the daylight hours. When asked why, he explained that he was looking for an honest man. Diogenes rejected the cultural values of his society, refusing to abide by their norms, but not in a becoming way. There is no evidence that his search was successful. 

Honesty is about truthfulness and is a decision each one makes for his or her life. It is a strength of character that brings with it self-respect and the respect of others. Aristotle, Plato, and other sophists of the time asked, “What is truth?” Is it merely the absence of deceit and lies, or is there something deeper? Is it relative or absolute? Journalists and politicians speak of truth, but one wonders if they are telling it. Is there a line between reality and ideology when it comes to truth? 

Theologians and philosophers continue the ancient Greek debates. Truth, according to Dr. John Piper, “Corresponds to God’s perspective… it is true for all people in all places at all times.” An honest or truthful person has his life rooted in the eternal and unchanging character of God. Jesus stated, in the verse prior to today’s, that those who abide in His word are truly His disciples (John 8:31). To know the truth, you need to know the Lord and be submitted to His Word.

Come before Almighty God today, recognizing Him as the source of all truth. As you pray over this nation, intercede for those in Congress and in the media to find Him and let His truth reign in their lives. 

Today’s Verse: John 8:32

and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Recommended for further reading: John 8:31-32; 5:39-44; 16:13 

31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 

39 You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, 40 yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life. 41 I do not receive glory from people. 42 But I know that you do not have the love of God within you. 43 I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not receive me. If another comes in his own name, you will receive him. 44 How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God? 

13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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