I believe we are living in a time of increasing deception. One of the first signs of the end times mentioned in the bible is being led astray (Matthew 24:4) Deception is clearly a characteristic of Satan “…the father of lies” … (John 8:44) and unless we are lovers of the truth, we will be counted with those led astray unto condemnation. 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 lays out a terrible fate for those who “refused to love the truth and so be saved” … “who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness” … they are given over to the lie they embrace… “Therefore, God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” How terrifying! If we push away the Spirit of truth, who bears witness about Jesus Christ, (see John 15:26) who scripture says is THE TRUTH, eventually God gives us what we want… a lie instead of Him. Do we love the truth? When conviction comes, do we love the truth about the depths of the wickedness of our own hearts? Will we face the truth of our failure to love God and others in embracing self-protective coping and refusing to be deeply involved with others out of a fear of vulnerability or the ties those deep longings have with the horrors of abuse? Will we love the truth to our own hurt? When the word of God cuts like a two-edged sword do we love the truth enough to accept the cutting and what is revealed about the thoughts and intents of our hearts? Will we abide in God’s word, which points to THE TRUTH… “and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” Truth is a person, more real and alive than anyone you have ever known. He, as one person always said, “is a gentleman” and will never force you to do anything… it is completely up to you whether you will love Him back… whether you will love the truth, and “so be saved” (2 Thessalonians 2:10). God already proved His love for you when you were far off and did not love Him… He sent His one and only son to die on a cross that you would not perish but have eternal life, for he did not come to condemn you but to save you (John 3:16). You are seen. And you are deeply loved.
