THE IMPORTANCE OF LIVING BY THE TRUTH

THE IMPORTANCE OF LIVING BY THE TRUTH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 8:32 – “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Supporting Texts: John 14:6, Proverbs 12:19, Ephesians 4:25, 2 Corinthians 13:8, Psalm 51:6

INTRODUCTION:
Truth is the very foundation of the Christian faith. Our Lord Jesus Christ declared that He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Without truth, there can be no real faith, no genuine relationship with God, and no lasting transformation. To live by the truth is to embrace the very nature of God, for the Bible tells us that God is not a man that He should lie (Numbers 23:19). Living by the truth separates us from hypocrisy and falsehood, and establishes us firmly in the will of God.

In a world filled with deception, manipulation, and half-truths, the believer is called to stand as a beacon of truth. Lies and falsehoods may seem attractive for a moment, but they ultimately lead to destruction and bondage. On the other hand, truth liberates, strengthens, and preserves. The truth might be painful at times, but it is always life-giving and restorative. That is why Jesus emphasised that it is the truth we know that sets us free.

When a believer chooses to live by the truth, they attract God’s presence and favour, build trustworthy relationships with people, and maintain a conscience that is free from guilt. Living by the truth is not merely about telling the truth with our words, but also demonstrating it through our lifestyle, choices, and actions. It is the call to integrity, faithfulness, and transparency that reflects Christ in us to the world.

1. TRUTH SETS US FREE FROM BONDAGE
Living by the truth brings spiritual freedom and deliverance from the chains of sin, guilt, and deception. When the truth of Christ penetrates the heart, every form of captivity is broken.

a) Freedom from sin (Romans 6:18): The truth of the gospel breaks the power of sin and gives us victory over its hold.

b) Freedom from deception (2 Thessalonians 2:10-11): Truth delivers us from the lies of the enemy and the spirit of error.

c) Freedom of conscience (Hebrews 9:14): When we walk in truth, our conscience is cleansed, and we are able to serve God freely.

d) Freedom to serve God (John 4:24): Truth enables us to worship God in spirit and in truth, without hypocrisy.

Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-24) – When he came to the truth about his life, he returned home and experienced restoration.

2. TRUTH BUILDS TRUST AND INTEGRITY
Truth is the bedrock of trust in our relationships with God and with men. Without truth, there can be no credibility, reliability, or genuine fellowship.

a) Truth builds credibility (Proverbs 12:19): A truthful person is respected and trusted by others.

b) Truth fosters unity (Ephesians 4:25): Speaking the truth in love strengthens relationships and promotes unity.

c) Truth preserves integrity (Job 27:5): Holding on to the truth keeps our character untainted before God and man.

d) Truth prevents hypocrisy (Matthew 23:27-28): A truthful life guards against pretence and empty religion.

Biblical Example: Joseph (Genesis 39:7-12) – He lived by the truth and refused to compromise, and God honoured him.

3. TRUTH REFLECTS THE NATURE OF GOD
To live by the truth is to mirror the very character of God, who is the God of truth. When we walk in truth, we show forth His holiness and faithfulness to the world.

a) God is truth (Deuteronomy 32:4): Everything about God is just, righteous, and true.

b) Jesus is the embodiment of truth (John 14:6): Living by the truth means living like Christ.

c) The Spirit of truth guides us (John 16:13): The Holy Spirit directs believers into all truth.

d) A truthful life glorifies God (Matthew 5:16): When we live truthfully, others see Christ in us and glorify God.

Biblical Example: Daniel (Daniel 6:3-5) – He maintained integrity and truth, and God exalted him above his enemies.

4. TRUTH BRINGS LASTING BLESSINGS AND PEACE
Living by the truth secures divine blessings and brings inner peace. Lies may give temporary relief, but truth guarantees eternal reward.

a) Truth establishes peace (Isaiah 32:17): A truthful life leads to peace of mind and tranquillity.

b) Truth attracts God’s favour (Psalm 84:11): God blesses those who walk uprightly in truth.

c) Truth ensures protection (Psalm 91:4): God’s truth serves as a shield and buckler for the believer.

d) Truth ensures stability (Proverbs 12:19): Unlike lies, truth endures and cannot be shaken.

Biblical Example: King Hezekiah (Isaiah 38:1-5) – Because he walked in truth, God added fifteen years to his life.

CONCLUSION:
Living by the truth is not an option but a command for every believer. It is the lifestyle that guarantees freedom, integrity, divine approval, and eternal life. Lies and falsehood may seem easier in the moment, but they destroy destinies, while truth preserves, blesses, and exalts.

When we live by the truth, we not only walk in liberty and favour but also reflect Christ to the world. God is calling His children to rise above deception and live in the reality of His truth, for it is only then that we can experience the fullness of His blessings and the joy of an unshaken conscience.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me the grace to always walk in Your truth.
2. Father, deliver me from every spirit of lies and deception.
3. Lord, help me to live a life of integrity and honesty.
4. O God, let my life be a reflection of Your truth.
5. Lord, establish peace in my heart through the power of truth.
6. Father, let the truth of Your Word prevail in every area of my life.
7. Lord, help me to reject every form of hypocrisy and falsehood.
8. Lord, make me a vessel of truth in my generation.
9. Father, let truth bring lasting blessings to my family.
10. Lord, guide me daily by Your Spirit of truth.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You shall walk in truth and enjoy divine freedom in the name of Jesus!
2. Every deception of the enemy over your life is destroyed today!
3. The Lord will establish you in integrity and cause you to be trusted by men.
4. Your life will reflect the nature and character of Christ.
5. Peace shall flow like a river in every area of your life.
6. God’s favour will rest upon you because you walk in truth.
7. You shall be preserved from the snares of falsehood.
8. The truth of God will shield you from every evil attack.
9. Your blessings shall be lasting because they are built on truth.
10. From today, your life shall become a testimony of God’s truth and glory!