King David prayed to the Lord for the blessings of the truth of the Word (Psalm 86:11-12 ESV).
Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth;
unite my heart to fear your name.
I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart,
and I will glorify your name forever.
But, the world divides people’s hearts. It tempts them to shun the Word and listen to the lures of the sin and the deception of self-righteousness. People try to justify their own actions and lifestyles apart from God and His truth.
The truth is that we are born sinners, separated from God. Like children, we need to be taught. King David prayed to be taught God’s truth and to have the Holy Spirit unite his heart to fearing, loving and serving God. With a whole heart, a healed and united heart, he could glorify God’s name. Everyone who serves God according the His truth, glorifies God.
Many of the Jews did not know the truth. They felt that they were righteous by their ceremonial deeds and customs. They called Gentiles sinners, but they refused to see their own sin. Jesus told them (John 8:12-38): “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he [the Christ] you will die in your sins.” Jesus told them that He is the Christ who would have to die for their sins. They needed grace.
Jesus came full of grace and truth to redeem sinners. Jesus told them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
Jesus told those who believed, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
God’s Word reveals love, grace, and truth for sinners. Jesus Christ died in your place on a cross for your sins that through faith you would have His very righteousness and live eternally in heaven. Walk in this truth to the glory of His holy name. Amen.
A devotion borrowed from Pastor Raymond Van Buskirk, emeritus