Today, we focus on the importance of standing firm on the Word. In 2 Corinthians 4:2, Paul says, “We reject every shameful cover-up and refuse to resort to cunning trickery or distorting the Word of God. Instead, we open up our souls to you by presenting the truth to everyone’s conscience in the sight and presence of God” (TPT). As this verse states, it is all about the Truth — God’s Word. His Word does not change, and Paul is making it clear that we should live and share His Truth in a “what you see is what you get” way. The Truth handed over as just that — Truth.
First, we read that we should renounce what is hidden because of shame. Some people in Corinth were going around in active sin, and even teaching people that certain sins were not sins. Instead, we are to reject the coverup. We are to reject the compromise of sin. Living a life of coverup does not help us become sanctified. Instead, the coverup has us living lies and separating ourselves from God. It also does not help us share the Good News, but instead causes damage to our witness and labels us hypocrites.
God’s Word stands forever (1 Peter 1:25). We cannot ignore some of it because it convicts. We cannot neglect a portion because it challenges the wisdom of this world. As well, God’s Word doesn’t change so we shouldn’t attempt to change it. We shouldn’t water it down to make it taste better for others. We should not manipulate it so that it works for our own agenda. We should not edit it or adapt it to attract people.
Standing firm on the Word means that we can boldly declare that every word of the Bible is true. Standing firm also means that we do all that we can to live out this Truth. We shall mess up at times, for we all sin and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Yet, we shall not attempt to cover this up, but instead, we confess, repent, and press onward. It is the Truth that sets us free (John 8:32). It is the Word that gives life (Proverbs 3:1-2). May we stand firm.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Truth. Lord, Your Word is alive and active. Your Word is powerful. We are clinging to Your Word today. We stand firm in Your Truth. We know Your word does not return void. We seek Your will this day and always. In Jesus’ Name. Amen!
Tania Gutekunst 