Ephesians 4:25
Verse 25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.
We all hate being lied to and yet may find it hard to be perfectly honest ourselves. There are times when it seems like the easiest way out is to give a half-truth or a “skirted” truth as it could hurt someone else if we told the truth. Like a husband who doesn’t find the outfit particularly flattering on his wife but knows she feels pretty in it. Or maybe it is a parent telling the child it is OK they made a mess because they are just happy to have the youngster helping with the meal prep. Either of those situations make lying seem like the kindest thing to do, but is there a better way? Aren’t those kinds of lies OK?
While those things seem harmless if we aren’t careful they could speak of deeper issues. It isn’t that we should be harsh with those we love but we have to be aware once we start allowing any falsehood to come from our mouth we are more likely to allow others during other situations. Paul added this because of the importance of truth to our life as a Christian.
This armor we are putting on is not for everyone. This is the armor for God’s people alone. While there may be those in the world who wear pieces which seem very similar to ours they aren’t the same because they aren’t wearing them for the same reason a Christian should be wearing theirs. Like a sports team wears the same kind of equipment as the opposing team, there are ways to tell them apart. Sometimes it is the color of their jersey and sometimes it is by the styles of their plays. Sometimes they are known because of the coaching they receive.
This is the reason our care to how we wear the belt of truth is so important. Because of Jesus being truth, no one outside of His army can wear truth in the same way. It is like a mark of His true army. While others may try to look the part of His soldiers, only those who know Him so well as to reflect Him can properly wear this belt.
Truth is the mark of a faithful follower. Though Paul is commanding his friends in Ephesus to put on the belt of truth, it is our choice to obey or not. The apostle knew the true followers of Jesus would understand how important truth was, not just in word but in deed and that would set us apart as God’s people, making the testimony of our relationship with Christ hold more weight with those who hear it. People will believe someone who is known for always holding tight to truth.
Making It Personal
Have you ever lost faith in someone because of their lack of truth? How important is truth in your life? Do people know they can count on you because you will always do what you say?
Making It Personal Kids
Has anyone ever lied to you? Did it change what you thought about them? How important is truth to you?
Closing Prayer
Father, we confess we don’t always live in ways which reflect You. Give us hearts which long for truth in every situation. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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