GIVE ME THE TRUTH

     If you are my friend, if you are concerned about my soul, GIVE
ME THE TRUTH. Do not flatter me. Do no praise my virtues while
remaining silent about my vices. Do not fear that the truth will
offend me. Do not treasure our friendship, our friendly relations,
about my salvation. Do not think that by ignoring my sins, you can
help me. Do not think that by being blind to my sins, you prove
yourself charitable. However I may react to it, whatever may be my
attitude toward you after you have done it. GIVE ME THE TRUTH!!
     For the truth, and only the truth, can make me free from the
shackles of sin, strengthen me in the pathway of righteousness and
lead be to the joys of heaven. If I am wavering, if I am weak, if I
am lukewarm, if I become indifferent, if I am neglectful; if I have
been overtaken in a trespass; if I have been drawn into the pleasures
of this world; if I have left my first love; if I have been led
astray by error; or if I have done none of these but simply need to
grow in knowledge and to be edified, GIVE ME THE TRUTH.
     Jesus said, "Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make
you free" (John 8:32). The truth of God's Word is the only true
source of freedom. But, having a copy of God's Word on the mantle is
not enough. Did you notice that Jesus said, "Ye shall KNOW the
truth"? Thus, it is mandatory that we allow that truth to permeate
our hearts and guide us in the paths of righteousness. We must come
to know the truth by a study of and a surrender to the teachings of
God's Eternal Word.
     -- Jack Thompson, preacher for the White Park church of Christ.

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