We live in a world where it is becoming increasingly difficult to separate truth from falsehood. A few years ago, the phrase “fake news” became popular. Some social media sites are now posting “warnings” that content may be untrue. There are also concerns that biases are influencing these censors’ view of what is true. You can even get your actual identity verified on these sites so that people know you’re the “real” Mark Renfroe, etc. Nevertheless, truth is essential for a healthy spiritual and emotional life.
Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). But, in a world where absolute truth is often dismissed as an obsolete idea, we have to ask, “What did Jesus mean when he said the above?” After all, this scripture verse is carved into one side of the entry hall at the Central Intelligence Agency headquarters. Surely Jesus meant something different than they do at the CIA.
Fortunately, Jesus told us in the previous verse exactly what he meant. The most important part of this statement is, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples….” (v. 31). Jesus wasn’t just referring to his teachings (though he certainly included that), but as the “Word of God” made flesh (John 1:1), he was referring to all of Scripture. So, to paraphrase what he was saying, “If you fully embrace me and what I teach, you’ll find the truth that’s necessary to live a life of freedom.”
The Apostle Paul told the early believers in Philippi to pray concerning their needs and that the peace of God would then guard their hearts; however, that’s not the whole story. He goes on to tell them to set their minds on several things—the first of which is whatever things are true. The devil is a liar. Jesus, speaking of the devil said, “He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44).
When you combine these passages, you understand that one of the primary ways God defends our hearts and minds is through his Word. Is your heart troubled? Are you worried? Go to God and to his Word, for in it, you will find the God of peace who wants to give you his peace.
