Today's Reading:
Psalms 124; 2 Corinthians 11,12,13
Scripture
"“Now we pray to God that you do no wrong; not that we ourselves may appear approved, but that you may do what is right, even though we may appear unapproved. For we can do nothing against the truth, but only for the truth.” (2 Corinthians 13:7-8)
Observation
Here, we get a precious glimpse of Paul the Apostle’s heart. He had heard that there was strife, jealousy, slander, and gossip, so Paul writes to challenge those vices … if indeed it were true. However, he hopes that they are not true. He addresses these issues, but he yet isn’t 100% sure of these indictments. Therefore, allow me to paraphrase what Paul was saying: “I hope these allegations are false. It is not that I want them to be found true (so that the public will see me as approved and justified.) No! I’d rather find these allegations to be false. That would be better! Because in the end, we must all be committed to what is fully true.”
Application
What a great heart. You see, sometimes, if we have an allegation against another person, it’s human desire to see that proved out to be true, so in the eyes of onlookers, we are justified in our contentions. However, if, somehow, those allegations may prove to be false, then I would look bad, even cruel! So, people will, at times, hold onto a half-truth, even though we know it is not accurate.
You see, if I am found in error, and my assertions proved false, I would be compelled to ask for forgiveness! However, by this time, we’ve made confident accusations as though they were proven, spent time and energy, and put ourselves out on a limb — however, now the “whole-truth” has become our opponent.
The Scriptures tell us in Romans 1:25: “They exchanged the truth of God for a lie …”
The result of this is if we do not submit to whatever is truth, God will “give us over” to a depraved mind. What a horrible ending!
Being committed to Truth, even if it means correcting my allegation, is more important than debasing people. I would want the same for myself; therefore, I must be committed to that for others.
Prayer
Father, help me have the courage to walk in the light — for we can do nothing against the truth, for God, You are Truth!
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