December 16, 2025

TRUTH!

1 Esdras 4:38-40 (only in Orthodox Bible)

“But the truth abides and is strong forever. The truth lives and rules unto ages of ages. There is no partiality or prejudice with the truth, but it does righteous things, distinct from all wrongdoings and evil. All are pleased with its deeds, and there is nothing unjust in its judgment. For strength, dominion, authority, and majesty belong to it unto all ages, and blessed is the God of truth.”

Personal challenge

What is truth? This is a profound question that has been on the lips of mankind from the beginning of creation. Even Jesus dialogued with Pilate about this just before His death.

John 18:37-38

Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?” Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”

Pilate said to Him, “What is truth?” And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews, and said to them, “I find no fault in Him at all.”

Jesus is the essence of truth. We cannot hear His voice if we do not live in Him, in truth. Throughout history, corrupt and vile men, and women, have risen to power by diminishing and attacking truth. They spread lies as if they were true. They distort facts in order to hide the truth. If we desire to live full and righteous lives, then we must constantly seek, embrace, and protect the truth. We cannot be a follower of Christ and avoid, reject, and destroy the truth. Lord, have mercy! Lord, have mercy! Lord, have mercy!