Embracing Truth Over Reality
I recently came across a thought-provoking quote: "Reality holds up the standard of what is, while truth lifts the banner of what could be." Lisa Bevere.
Reality encourages us to accept what is, as the way things will always be. However, the revelation of truth awakens the hope of something so much more, becasue truth has transformative power.
Reality Changes - Truth Remains Constant
Our reality is ever-changing, adapting to our surroundings, culture, and situations. In contrast, truth remains steadfast, unaffected by external influences. It is honest, full of integrity, and a foundation on which we can stand firm in an unstable world.
Jesus Challenges Reality
Jesus constantly challenged people's realities. The blind were given sight, the dead raised, the sick healed, and the oppressed set free. He restored dignity, challenged societal norms, and uplifted those marginalized by society. He never allowed sickness, brokenness, or status to define someone's reality if it contradicted God's will and plan for their life. In His presence, negative realities crumble before the power of absolute truth. When He walked into a room, everything changed and He still works in people's lives the same today. When Jesus comes on the scene and we welcome Him into our lives, everything can and will change for the better.
Choosing to Believe
Today, people are discouraged and fearful, uncertain of what to believe. They've been deceived into thinking, "This is it, this is who you are, and the world is just like that." Yet, wisdom calls us to reject this flawed reality, urging us to rise above the status quo and act, think and believe differently (Proverbs 8:9-10).
A look at the world reveals a desperate need for change and to reject the flawed realities we face and believe in something greater. To challenge realities around us with the truth of what God says.
The question is: will you settle for what is, or will you choose to believe and replace the reality you face with truth whenever they contradict God's Word? Because God's Word declares that you are forgiven, free, and delivered from fear, sickness, pain, addiction, and lack.
Impact Lives By Sharing Truth
Imagine what could happen if you resolved to walk with Jesus seeking to be more aware of His presence and what He is doing everyday. To believe His Word, and embrace who He says you are.
Then consider how impactful your life could become if you choose to share the truth and good news of Jesus and all He has done for you with others that they might discover this truth too. You can be a part of how God changes the world and transforms lives, both now and for all eternity.
I encourage you to embrace this call to rise above the status quo; of not believing things will always be the same; that people can't and don't change; that we are stuck in our mistakes, shame and pain. That might be the present reality, but it's not God's truth. Jesus is faithful the same yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13;8) What he has done for others He can and will do for you and the people in your world too.
Together, let's make a lasting difference and share the truth.
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2).
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." (John 8:26 NIV)
"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" (Isaiah 41:10).
"Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun" (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Prayer: Lord, please help me stand for truth rather than settle for a life far from what You have planned for me. Help me see myself as You do and challenge the things in and around me that do not align with Your will and plan. Awaken hope in me for a better future. In Jesus name Amen