By Paul Alberts
How often do we hear comments that fail to take into account the true value of something? There are many things in this world about which people battle for what they think is right, even though their expressed views are often based on nothing more than selfish pride or opinion. By contrast, those who base their position on an accurate interpretation of Scripture have a firm foundation for their convictions. The Lord Jesus is “the truth” (Jn. 14:6 NKJV) – there is no other. We should ask ourselves individually, “Are the principles I hold right before Him?”
Like a piece of clothing that has been stretched out, over time we can too easily lose the biblical accuracy in our beliefs. This may happen by going beyond what the Bible says about a matter, or we might compromise regarding scriptural instruction and fall short of what is right. Changes either way need to be corrected, for the consequences can be quite significant. Good or bad, our positions on matters will affect others. More importantly, will our Lord be honored and glorified by the views we hold and express that are outside of the teaching found in the Word of God? Of course not.
But how can we be confident of the accuracy of a view we hold? First, we must read, study and meditate on His Word. This is not a once in a lifetime activity, but a daily privilege to spend time in the Lord’s presence, learning as Mary did at His feet (Lk. 10:39; Acts 17:11). Second, prayer must accompany our desire to learn from Him (Mk. 10:10). Third, we need to realize that the Holy Spirit will teach us truth (Jn. 14:26) free of error – something that is not true of even the best Bible schools. Fourth, it is not possible to be seeking our own way at the same time as we are trying to learn what is right before God (Lk. 10:29). Finally, sin and its associated partners will prevent us, by grieving the Holy Spirit, from seeing the truth of Scripture (Eph. 4:30-31); they must be confessed (1 Jn. 1:9).
As the Word of God is presented in the articles this month, let us be ready to receive what He would open to us for our blessing and that of those near and dear to us – all to His glory.