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Whatever is True. . .

Pilate asked Jesus, “What is truth?” (John18:38)

People have searched to find an answer to his question. Once, my Sunday school teacher asked this question of our class. A saintly lady answered with, “That which measures up to reality.” My concordance defines truth as: ‘that which is reliable, trustworthy, and consistent with the character and revelation of God.’

In my childhood parents instilled the idea that telling the truth was what was the expected avenue to take when their children were ‘called on the carpet.’ If we told the truth, the discipline was easier than if we chose to fib. If we were caught in a lie, our discipline was for our ‘telling stories’ as well as our transgression.

A relative of ours rededicated her life to Jesus and realized she had to make things right with certain agencies she had done business with. One of them told her that, since she came to them and admitted her misuse of their services, they would not take punitive measures--denial of assistance or not allowing use of their ‘product.’ For her honesty she received grace.

Jesus told his disciples, “Then, you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8; 31,36 (NIV)

When we ask Christ into our hearts, we receive freedom from the consequence of our sin. We gain discernment into the reason for our prior sinful actions and the actions of those around us.

Several years ago, a friend from church called me and asked me how I was. My response was, “All right.” She told me that I wasn’t and she could tell by my voice.” Later on, I, also, began to hear certain changes in people’s tone of voice when I asked the same question.

When I greet someone, I say, “Hi, how are you.” I am doing two things, 1.) I recognize their presence and 2.) I inquire about their well-being. When someone tells me, “I’m good.” If that person is a teenager and has a certain timbre in their voice, it tells me he or she might not want to talk to me.

I have a friend who has been very seriously ill for quite some time. Before she got this point, I would ask that question and I could hear her true response in her voice. If her voice didn’t match the words she used, I would ask, “How are you, really.” Now, she seems to realize that ask my question because I care about her.

I wonder; is it too late to teach people that we can honestly, truthfully converse with others and not hide behind words that sound nice but aren’t reliable or consistent with God’s word?

Dear God:

I thank You for Your love, Your Word and what it teaches us about how You want us to communicate with those we meet. I give you praise for all You do. In the name of Jesus, I pray. AMEN

"The Way" from Kevin Pauley

A World of One