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Living Out Loud

Why the Search for Truth Matters?

Last updated on: July 17, 2023 at 1:34 pm   by Margaret Y. Buapim

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Why the Search for Truth Matters? 2023-07-17T13:34:30-07:00 Margaret Y. Buapim

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The truth is likened to pearls

Photo courtesy Microsoft Stock Images “Truth is likened to Pearls”

Many are considering a search for the truth. In a world that is being increasingly propaganda filled, it often seems impossible. Some have come to the conclusion that truth is relative. Yet, there are some truths so universal they are considered scientific fact. That doesn’t stop many from trying to see if they can be altered. In such a relative world,  is it worth it to search for truth? Is there one truth that matters more?

We see it everyday – confusion, anger, frustration, acts of violence and corruption. It seems hard pressed to believe that much of it stems from our propaganda filled world. Unless one is a truth lover, its easy to run off with the latest conspiracy and develop an unbalanced mind.  As a Christian, we are not exempt, unless, we’ve cultivated honest hearts and have tested the freedom that comes from knowing that the violence and corruption in these “end times” have a limit on how far they can go.  After all, it was prophesied and  told before as a way to remind us that God’s truth is the only reality that is consistent and matters most.

For some, this may be an angering thought.  But, of the truth, Jesus said, “you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free.” In other words, a search for the truth is viable and valuable. We can be set free from several things: slavery to sin, slavery to our weaknesses, slavery to thoughts of men. Is it really possible to be free when others around us seem enslaved to addiction, odd fixations, mental strain and corruption?

What is the truth?

Jesus was clear when he said that the Word of God is the ultimate source of truth.  He also prayed that those who believed on him would be set apart from the world by the truth of God’s word.  The reason is that, apart from truth, we are all slaves to sin and the mental disposition that   adheres to the god of this world.

While truth is defined by the dictionary as ‘that which is found to be fact,’ the truth we are speaking of here is eternal.  As humans, we usually ask ourselves these questions. Who am I? What is my purpose? Why is there so much suffering in the world and in my life?  Considered universal questions, a search for that answer can take a lifetime for some. For others who have found the answer, a celebration on being free from an oppressed and depressed mental state is in order.

The truth clears up misconceptions and allows for advancement of plans. The truth is the necessary building block for a firm foundation that does not break and wash away when the storms of life come.

The Benefit of Truth

As women, if we do not have a firm hold on the truth, we can be easily manipulated. One woman, who had a life of living from one relationship after another, without the benefit and dignity of marriage, was preached to by Jesus Christ, and perhaps set free from the emotional burdens she may have carried as a result of her lifestyle. Knowing that someone could tell her the truth of her life, may have made all the difference.

The truth is that where there is deceit, injustice, corruption and violence grow.  Human beings are made to solve problems that determine how society runs, makes progress, and benefits the individual lives of those on the planet. As individuals, we are challenged with living honestly, building character, and freeing ourselves of the beliefs that limit our potential. If we have the right manual, much of our success will be aided by God because it is in line with his original purpose for the earth and humans.

There is some truth, however, that we have no control over and are helpless against. Such as, the fact that we die and many of our days are filled with anguish.  For these, God explains the reason and his solution.

Where Can Truth Be Found?

In order to evaluate truth, many believe that only a scientific method is acceptable. It is true that we need information that propels us forward and sustains.  The Samaritan woman above found truth that was satiating. When Jesus spoke of “our daily bread,” we can also infer the metaphor that God’s word is food and light needed regularly. The word of God gives us certainty and direction. The events its foretold have also proven to be fact and continue to unfold before our eyes.

Yet, His word encourages us to not just accept blindly what we are told. We must read and see God’s word for ourselves and test the results.  Its effect, trickles down and impacts our families, our community, the greater society and the quality of our own lives. What are signs that God’s word is benefiting our lives? We have the fruit of the spirit and we have clear directions for our lives.

But, let’s be clear, God not only gives us direction concerning our own lives, he gives us the answers for dealing with events that have long been prophesied. These prophetic events and our own personal choices and circumstance are no doubt bound to weigh on us from time to time.  Which is why God’s word says, we must never be willing to part with truth once we find it. Knowing that there are answers to life’s universal questions, prophecies concerning current events, and an anecdote for suffering and death, allows us to have a balanced mental state and confidence to move in a positive direction.   Prayer, meditation on His promises and obedience to His word yields a life filled with peace.

Five Essential Truths

Jesus gave examples of the actions of those who find truth and know its value. They leave what is behind and they hold onto this valued possession. Among those possessions is a knowledge of key factors of life.

The purpose of God’s word is to help us grow and to live a vibrant, abundant life. Being unburdened by falsehoods and having a solid anchor in Christ can help us whether the storms that come, answer the complex questions we have, and give us a peace that passes all understanding. It is the truth that sets free.

 

 

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