“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32 NKJV)

I’ve noticed changes in my body post-Covid. I return home after a walk void of energy. As temperatures rise, my stamina declines. A change in diet or my exercise routine might benefit my physical endurance, but what about my spiritual stamina? How can I make sure I am prepared for whatever the enemy throws at me today?

We dress in God’s armor, and we begin with the belt of truth. Don’t consider it a fashion accessory, but think of it as a tool belt. The Roman soldiers in Paul’s day attached the breastplate to the belt, and it also held the sword. The belt provided a place to tuck the tunic in as they engaged in hand-to-hand combat, freeing their arms and legs to fight. How does the belt of truth protect us?

First, we need to attend a church that preaches the truth. These are a dying breed as we near the last days.

Next, we must peruse the Christian books we read and the podcasts we listen to. Whatever enters the ear canal and eye canal must be the truth of the Word of God and not a watered-down version.

Standing for God’s truth often means standing alone.

Are we willing to lose our popularity over the gospel truth? Will we admonish someone in hopes of keeping them out of hell?

Next, look for the lies within. This will prove to be more difficult because we might have to release some wrong attitudes. For example, legalism isn’t truth. It’s following manmade rules. When Jesus saved us and set us free, what did He free us from? Sin, death, and the devil. Sadly, we still live within fleshly bodies with deceitful hearts filled with dishonest emotions.

As you read God’s Word or listen to a sermon, allow the truth to expose any lingering sin, including sins of the heart. Am I holding a bitter grudge? Has anger caused me to sin?  Are my views consistent with God or contrary to His holiness?

God’s truth must be the governing body of our lives. Not our attitudes, feelings, or conscience.  Truth must rule over every nook and Cranney of our hearts, soul, and minds.

Finally, beware of almost truths, the enemy’s favorite tool. It almost sounded genuine when he lured Eve into taking a bite of the forbidden fruit, but he didn’t quote God correctly.

Know the truth and it will set you free!

Once we eliminate all the sources of error in our lives, we must be prepared with the truth to fight the battles we face daily.  The truth is essential for building up our spiritual endurance. We have an enemy lurking around like a ravenous lion ready to devour us. He seeks to steal, kill, and destroy us, our families and our churches.

Without truth, we cannot use the other five pieces of God’s armor. So, let’s get that belt of truth out and prepare to wear it.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word for it is truth. Give me discernment to distinguish between truth and error. Guard me from the deception tearing my mind through all outlets including books and sermons. Give me the courage to step away from deceit in my own life. In Jesus’s name. Amen.

DIG DEEPER

Read Ephesians 6:10-18.

HIKING THE TRAIL

Concentrate on all the parts of the armor, but especially concentrate on the belt. Make it part of your daily prayer.

RELATED RESOURCE

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Originally posted on May 24, 2021 @ 3:00 am