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Visionary View: Don't Close Your Eyes To The Truth Series
Contributed by Dean Courtier on Sep 10, 2023 (message contributor)
Summary: We live in a world filled with various perspectives and ideas, but as believers, it's crucial that we seek the truth found in God's Word. Let us explore the Scriptures for guidance.
"Visionary View: Don't Close Your Eyes to the Truth"
Today, we delve into an essential topic: "Visionary View: Don't Close Your Eyes to the Truth." We live in a world filled with various perspectives and ideas, but as believers, it's crucial that we seek the truth found in God's Word. Let us explore the Scriptures for guidance.
I. The Pursuit of Truth:
In John 8:31-32 (NLT), Jesus said, "You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Jesus emphasizes the importance of truth in our lives and how it brings freedom.
II. The Danger of Closing Our Eyes:
In 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (NLT), the apostle Paul warns, "For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths."
This warning is relevant today. Many choose to close their eyes to the truth and instead embrace teachings that align with their desires. But this path leads away from God's truth and can result in spiritual blindness.
III. The Story of the Blind Man:
In John 9:1-41, we encounter the story of a man born blind. After Jesus heals him, the religious leaders question him about the miracle. But they are unwilling to accept the truth that Jesus is the Messiah. They close their eyes to the obvious evidence before them.
IV. Opening Our Eyes to the Truth:
How can we ensure that we do not close our eyes to the truth?
1. Embrace Humility:
Proverbs 11:2 (NLT) reminds us, "Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." Humility opens our hearts to receive God's truth, even if it challenges our preconceived notions.
2. Study God's Word:
Psalm 119:105 (NLT) declares, "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." Regular study of God's Word illuminates the truth and helps us discern falsehood.
3. Seek Godly Counsel:
Proverbs 15:22 (NLT) advises, "Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success." Seek counsel from mature believers who can provide godly wisdom and perspective.
4. Test Everything:
1 Thessalonians 5:21 (NLT) encourages us to "test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good." Don't accept teachings blindly; compare them to the truth found in Scripture.
V. Closing Encouragement:
As we conclude, I want to leave you with this thought: The truth is not a matter of opinion; it's a matter of revelation. God has revealed His truth to us through His Word, and it's our responsibility to seek, embrace, and live by that truth.
Closing Quote: Charles Spurgeon once said, "Discernment is not knowing the difference between right and wrong. It is knowing the difference between right and almost right."
Let us apply what we have heard today by remaining steadfast in the pursuit of truth, staying humble before God, and testing everything against the standard of His Word.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the truth found in Your Word. Help us to keep our eyes open to Your truth and not be swayed by falsehoods. Grant us discernment and humility. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
May we be people who never close our eyes to the truth, for it is the truth that sets us free and guides us on the path of righteousness. Go forth in the light of God's truth, and may His wisdom guide your steps.