A Life Built on Truth
by: Rev. Dr. Tina Pitamber
In Philippians 4:8, Paul makes a powerful statement when he says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true …. think about such things.” Most of us would verbally agree with Paul’s statement, but do we really practice it? Do we set our minds on what is true?
If we are being honest, we find our mind dwells on lies, rather than what is true. What is a lie? A lie is believing in an idea that contradicts the Word of God. For example, when we believe women have no value, that is a lie. The Bible says we are one in Christ (Galatians 3:28). The Bible exposes the lies we believe and verifies what is true or not.
The Bible exposes the lies we believe and verifies
what is true or not.
Are you thinking about what is true or have you let your mind wander on lies? Jesus wants us to know the truth so that we can be free, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8: 32). However, Satan does not want us to know the truth, he wants us to believe in lies so that we will remain in bondage. Satan wants us to be addicted to drugs, jealous of the success of others, envious of what people have, gossiping about others so that we remain trapped. In fact, Satan does not care about our well being, he wants us to die (John 10: 10).
We cannot trust the enemy because the Bible says Satan is the father of lies (John 8:44). However, we can trust God because the Word of God says “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14: 6).
We can trust God because the Word of God says “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14: 6).
What lies have you been entertaining lately? What untrue beliefs have you planted in your life; have these beliefs taken root and become strongholds in your life? I can name a few.
I am not beautiful. That is a lie, the Bible says we are wonderfully and fearfully made (Psalm 139:14).
I am not good enough. Another lie…. The Bible says we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4: 13). Feelings of inadequacy are not from God we can do all that is required of us through the power of the Holy Spirit.
I will never be free from this sin in my life. Another lie... Jesus died for your sin, you are free, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, you can live a holy life (Romans 8: 5-7). Living a life of peace is possible.
I am guilty. Simply not true. We do not have to walk around feeling guilty about our sin because the Bible says there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1).
I am scared, I should not try. No matter what you are facing God is with you and he promises to give you courage (Joshua 1: 5). Whatever God is calling you to do, let go of fear and walk in the confidence of God.
I am worried. In the Bible, Paul gives us a remedy when we default to worry. Paul says we should not worry, but by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, we need to give our worries to God (Philippians 4: 6).
Paul was right! Whatever is true, we should think those things because the moment we don’t, we let our guard down and our thoughts go in the wrong direction. If we keep our mind focused and think about the truth, suddenly that which was an obstacle is taken down by the Word of God and we are empowered.
So, my sister in Christ, go in the power of what is true, not false ideas. Live your life based on what is true and see the wonderful work God will do in and through your life.
It’s time to say goodbye to lies and embrace the truth.
Rev. Dr. Tina Pitamber is the lead and planting pastor of Solid Rock Community Church (SRCC). From September 2007 to September 2008, Tina planted SRCC with a small core group from the mother church. SRCC opened on September 21, 2008. Tina studied at the University of Toronto and obtained her Bachelors of Science Degree in June 2004. Tina continued her education at Tyndale University College and Seminary and received her Masters of Divinity in Pastoral Studies in May 2007 and her Doctor of Ministry Degree in hospitality and leadership in November 2015. Tina's hobbies are reading, traveling, and music. She can be reached through Youtube: solidrockcommunityca Facebook:Solid Rock Community Church of the Nazarene Instagram: Solid Rock @solidrockcommunitychurch