Today’s Bible Verse
The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.
Nahum 1:7 (NIV)
TAKE REFUGE IN THE TRUTH
The culture of the world we live in teaches us that white lies, half-truths, deception and even outright lies will keep us safe. When we do something wrong, we seek for safety from the consequences of our wrong choices and wrong actions. We want safety from shame and embarrassment. We want safety from harm. We want safety from being caught or found out.
The devil offers us a salvation of sorts. He whispers in our ears that the only way we can find that kind of safety is to lie. Lie about our struggles. Lie about the temptations that we’re facing and have given in to. Lie to our family. Lie to our friends. Unfortunately, we buy into the lie, starting with lying to ourselves: It’s really not that bad. I have it under control. God will forgive me. But each time we lie about our sin, the more our love for God grows cold, until eventually our heart is numb and lifeless. The only way out is to begin to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
Many people struggle with self-hatred. They know they’ve made bad choices. They believe that if anyone knew the truth about them, about their struggles, they would become an outcast. If you’ve been feeling that way, may I remind you of Jesus’ promise, the One who already knows everything about you: “…whoever comes to Me I will never cast out” (John 6:37 ESV). (Pastor Davin Yokomori)
An Uncommon Life
Don’t suffer in silence. Don’t struggle alone. If there’s something you’ve been hiding, something you’ve lied in order to “protect”, it’s time to turn to God in repentance. And it’s time to tell the truth about what’s going on in your life. Talk to your Life Group Leader. Talk to your pastors. Talk to your parents. Talk to someone who knows how to take you to the Cross.
Today’s Declaration
I will not take refuge in telling lies and deceiving others. The Holy Spirit, Who is the Spirit of Truth, lives in me and empowers me to be a person of God’s truth. I do not hide my sin. I seek the help of others and encounter Jesus at His Cross.
Today’s Bible Reading
- Old Testament: Leviticus 21-23; Psalms 45
- New Testament: Matthew 20:17-34; Acts 27:27-44
