Unearthing Deception: A Devotional Study on Truth
STORY: Live Your Truth?
So many people say they just want to be able to live their truth. They believe the best way to show respect for others is to let them live their truths. But how can truth be truth if it’s not the same truth across the board? Instead of condoning the truths of others that go against God’s truth, I find ways to acknowledge people so they know they are seen and heard, regardless of what “truth” they chose.
Why is absolute truth so comforting? Because we can count on it always being the same and never changing. No circumstance can turn it into a different truth. No year in time, no place on the map, nothing can cause it to transform into a new truth.
It might sound very narrow-minded to have this mindset, but honestly, it is very freeing. The Bible even says the truth will set you free (John 8:32).
The best way for us to have peace of mind and liberty in life is to anchor our beliefs on the only truth that matters, God’s truth.
STUDY: Finding the Truth in Psalms
Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts . . . Such people will stand firm forever. (Psalm 15:2, 5 NLT)
- Living in truth is such a big part of standing firm. What is the reason we want to stand firm? Keeping that in mind will help us do what it takes to stand firm.
- According to this passage, what actions result in standing firm?
- How do you lead a blameless life and do what is right, in light of Jesus as your Savior?
- It takes having a sincere heart to be able to speak truth. How do we check our hearts for sincerity?
What can you do when your enemies shame you? Remind yourself that God takes care of those who oppress you. What happens to your feelings when you make it a priority to know God’s ways?
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies exult over me. Indeed, none who wait for you shall be put to shame; they shall be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long (Psalm 25:1-5 ESV).
- Let’s answer that question found in this Scripture: “What happens to your feelings when you make it a priority to know God’s ways?”
- How do you seek truth from God’s teachings?
Send out your light and your truth; let them guide me. Let them lead me to your holy mountain, to the place where you live. (Psalm 43:3 NLT)
- The words “light” and “truth” often go together in the Bible. Why do you think that is? What is their source?
- How can you be guided by God’s light and truth?
- How can God’s light and truth lead you closer to God?
Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you. (Psalm 86:11 NLT)
- How are God’s ways different than your ways? How can you learn of his ways?
- What is the benefit of learning God’s ways?
- What happens when you choose to go your own way and it leads you away from God’s truth?
- How do you find purity of heart? How does that honor God?
My eyes strain to see your rescue, to see the truth of your promise fulfilled (Psalm 119:123 NLT).
- When times are hard, it’s often difficult to see God at work.
- How is God rescuing you? How can you discover the truth of his work in your life?
Your justice is eternal, and your instructions are perfectly true. (Psalm 119:142 NLT)
- Psalm 119 is known for addressing so many facets of God’s Word. Why is it good to be aware of God’s justice?
- Where do you find God’s instructions? In an age of seeking truth, are you digging more into God’s perfect truth, the Bible?
STEPS: Living Out the Truth
- Seek truth in the Bible. “The very essence of your words is truth; all your just regulations will stand forever” (Psalm 119:160 NLT). At the core of God’s Word we find truth. It is the basis for all else. When everything in life fails, his Word will stand forever.
- Call on God in truth. “The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth” (Psalm 145:18 NLT). When you pray, make sure what you ask for is biblical. When you live in his purity of heart, your prayers will align with God’s will. Focus on how close God is to you when you call on him.
Copyright © 2021 Kathy Carlton Willis, used with permission.