JESUS SPEAKING
Now about the middle of the feast Jesus went into the temple and taught. And the Jews marveled, saying, “How does this Man know letters, having never studied?” Jesus answered them and said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me. If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority. He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who seeks the glory of the One who sent Him is true, and no unrighteousness is in Him.” (John 7: 16 – 18)
FAITHFUL THOUGHTS
As Jesus taught in the temple, the Jewish leaders marveled at His doctrine. He had never been formally educated, and yet He possessed a perfect understanding of the scriptures. In a state of complete unity with God, His words contained no errors or unrighteous deviations. The knowledge of truth isn’t something that can be attained through careful study, but rather, can only be received from God, through His Holy Spirit (the true source of all wisdom.)
Concerning deception, Modern day psychology represents an attempt to explain and correct behavior based upon observation and human reasoning. As a result, many strange practices have arisen in the absence of God’s truth. None more peculiar than the current transgender movement. Advocates believe that individuals who feel inwardly as though they are a different sex than their biological anatomy indicates, should be true to their feelings instead of reality. Thus, many psychologists have embraced gender affirming care; suggesting for example, that the best therapy is for a man to transition into a woman; (or vice versa) by dressing, acting, and pretending to be the opposite sex. And yet in God’s word we read, “A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment, for all who do so are an abomination to the Lord your God.” (Deuteronomy 22: 5) Therefore the proper care is to address the lie and assist these individuals into accepting reality; which requires them to live in conformity with their genuine biological sex.
As Christians we are also called to live in conformity to the reality of God’s truth; as given to us through the teachings of Jesus Christ and the scriptures; which only the Holy Spirit can properly discern. If we seek only God’s glory, then we too can be used to reveal to others what is good, and right, and true. May we never stop spreading His glorious doctrine with great joy.
“Lord Heavenly Father, we recognize that You are the source of all truth. May we be conformed into Your image, and eagerly obey Your doctrines. May we carry Your message of salvation to the ends of the earth. Give us the strength, the courage, and the understanding to accomplish Your desires. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name, amen.” God bless all of you!