God Speaking

“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

(John 14: 6)

The Old Testament is filled with fascinating characters who set wonderful examples for us. In the Bible study group I belong to, we have been studying the life of Elijah, a loyal prophet who steadfastly upheld the truth about the Mighty God of Israel whom he served. It was a time when false gods were worshipped, but Elijah always refused to follow the crowd, despite being threatened and living in constant fear of death. God had chosen him to be a voice of truth and performed miracles through him. At one point, he single-handedly confronted 450 false prophets of Baal and demonstrated God’s power by calling down fire from heaven. It’s a compelling story to read (1 Kings 18).

David understood that the only way to stay on the path of truth was to seek guidance from the Lord:

“Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” (Psalm 25: 4 – 5)

In the Gospels, Jesus repeatedly emphasized that he was speaking the truth, often beginning his teachings to the disciples and the crowds with the words:

I tell you the truth…

In our current age, we may not see statues of strange gods being worshipped, but we are surrounded by false teachings—worldly doctrines promising happiness, wealth, and power, all focusing on self-gratification, becoming like gods.

David recognized that when vile practices are allowed and even celebrated, evil invades people’s lives and has the freedom to deceive:

“The wicked freely strut about when what is vile is honored among men.: (Psalm 12: 8)

So, how do we stand up for the truth? How do we discern good from evil amidst the whirlwind of false teachings? When David sought to understand this, he cried out to the Lord for guidance on the path of truth (Psalm 25: 4 – 5).

These words can form a simple prayer for us to recite each morning before starting our day, reminding us to stay close to Jesus. By following and obeying His words, embedding them in our hearts, our actions will speak for us. We will no longer be swayed by the world’s beliefs; we will be free.

“…If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8: 31 – 32)