Walking in the Truth

Where are you walking?

People are path creatures. We feel the most comfortable and safe when we have a path upon which to walk. Generally speaking, when we have a destination in mind, we want to walk on a path, a trail, a sidewalk, or a road. Sure, we like to explore, to go where no path exists, but even then we may well be establishing a new trail for us or others to follow later. So even trailblazers like paths.

Having a path and walking on it will do us no good if that path does not lead to our destination. If I want to go to Molalla, which is east of us on Highway 211, I won't go west on 211 to Interstate 5 and then turn south, charting a course for San Diego. Of course not! Obviously we must be informed and selective about the trails we choose for ourselves.

The same principle applies to the spiritual dimension of our lives. We all need to chart a course for our lives; otherwise, we wander aimlessly, going nowhere . . . and getting there. The first major step in setting our course is determining the purpose and destination of our life trip. Since my purpose is pleasing God and my destination is Heaven, I have chosen the only course that will take me there. Oh, many other paths exist, alright, and some of them appeal to me, but since they distract me from my purpose and beguile me from my destination, I refuse to put my feet on them.

Where are you walking? Make sure it leads to your destination!

Choosing truth

To walk in a path we must first choose it. That requires conscious study followed by determined, focused effort. When I drive to Mexico, I study my atlas till I am persuaded about the route I wish to take. That is Phase One of making my choice. Phase Two begins when I actually guide my vehicle onto that road. Thus choice is more than study and a decision; it is also action to implement that decision.

As I "drive" toward Heaven, I cannot exercise any less care. I must study my Bible and communicate with my Guide before choosing how I will live. Then, having made those daily choices, I must actually live according to them. Thus, before I will be "found...walking in truth" (2 John 4), I must discover and choose that truth.

I challenge you to enhance your choice and pursuit of truth by studying the use of the term in the Bible. I'll give you a little help by calling your attention to a few of those verses.

We choose truth by choosing God ahead of and above anything which He has created. "Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator..." (Romans 1:25). Do not allow anything or anyone to supplant God in your life!

We choose truth when we love others. "...Ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren..." (1 Peter 1:22). You cannot walk in truth if you do not love.