Valiant for the Truth #747

“And like their bow they have bent their tongues for lies. They are not valiant for the truth on the earth. For they proceed from evil to evil, and they do not know Me,” says the Lord. (Jeremiah 9:3, NKJV)

Among the sins in Judah that brought Jeremiah to tears were the lies that characterized their daily existence. Dishonesty had become their nature; deceit and lies prevailed in the land rather than truth. God is a God of truth and utter integrity, and He hates “a lying tongue” (Prov. 6:16-17). His people must be holy, as He is holy. But, Judah ran from sin to sin, conforming to the evil around them instead of the holiness of Jehovah. This stern warning of divine rebuke and judgment stirs our devotion to truth, to be trustworthy in word and deed. Since “every transgression and disobedience received a just reward” under the Law of Moses, we will not escape if we choose lies over truth (Heb. 2:2-3). Be noble and brave for the truth, even when those around you speak lies. “Refrain your tongue from evil” and your “lips from speaking deceit” (1 Pet. 3:10).

The Fight Is On! #697

13  Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. 14  Let all that you do be done with love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13–14, NKJV)

The Christian must be spiritually alert every single day. The enemy is always stalking his prey, and he intends for you to be his next meal (1 Pet. 5:8). Like soldiers guarding a stronghold, we must not waver as we strive “together for the faith of the gospel” (Phil. 1:27). Moral courage is essential, and when added to your faith it helps you attain to the spiritual strength you need to battle the adversary (2 Pet. 1:5). The most striking part of Paul’s call to arms is the directive to do all things with love. Being steadfast in your faith and undeterred by the devil’s attacks is accomplished by loving God, His truth, your brethren and your enemies in all you say and do. The fight is on. Thanks be to God, “who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:57).