Truth Is - Part 7 [Notes]

In a world where the very concept of truth is under attack, we are called upon to know the truth and be able to defend it (Jude 1:6). The truth can impact our relationship with God, and it can lead to true freedom (John 8:32). Unfortunately, many in our society no longer value the truth, and they don't know where to turn in order to find it. What are some ways in which our culture has strayed from the truth and how can we graciously stand firm as we face those in our society who look to undermine it? Join us this week for our new series!

Today's Takeaway // We can disagree with people in an agreeable way by speaking the truth in love.

The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.
– Proverbs 18:17 (HCSB)

The one who gives an answer before he listens—this is foolishness and disgrace for him.
– Proverbs 18:13 (HCSB)

A fool does not delight in understanding, but only wants to show off his opinions.
– Proverbs 18:2 (HCSB)

A wise man will listen and increase his learning, and a discerning man will obtain guidance.
– Proverbs 1:5 (HCSB)

2. Stop quarrels before they begin.

To start a conflict is to release a flood; stop the dispute before it breaks out.
– Proverbs 17:14 (HCSB)

It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool can get himself into a quarrel.
– Proverbs 20:3 (HCSB)

Don’t rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will learn more.
– Proverbs 9:8-9 (HCSB)

3. Show that you love people more than you love your viewpoint.

Hatred stirs up conflicts, but love covers all offenses.
– Proverbs 10:12 (HCSB)

A person’s insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense.
– Proverbs 19:11 (HCSB)

4. Speak less and softly for greater impact.

When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise.
– Proverbs 10:19 (HCSB)

The intelligent person restrains his words, and one who keeps a cool head is a man of understanding. Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps silent, discerning when he seals his lips.
– Proverbs 17:27-28 (HCSB)

The one who guards his mouth and tongue keeps himself out of trouble.
– Proverbs 21:23 (HCSB)

The mind of the righteous person thinks before answering, but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil things.
– Proverbs 15:28 (HCSB)

A ruler can be persuaded through patience, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
– Proverbs 25:15 (HCSB)

A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge attractive, but the mouth of fools blurts out foolishness.
– Proverbs 15:1-2 (HCSB)

A hot-tempered man stirs up conflict, but a man slow to anger calms strife.
– Proverbs 15:18 (HCSB)

5. Solicit the help of God with your dispute

When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
– Proverbs 16:7 (HCSB)

If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; 22 for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.
– Proverbs 25:21-22 (HCSB)

If possible, on your part, live at peace with everyone. Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for His wrath. For it is written: Vengeance belongs to Me; I will repay, says the Lord. But If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. For in so doing you will be heaping fiery coals on his head. Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good.
– Romans 12:18-21 (HCSB)

The principle stated here is that the believer has turned himself over to the Lord and therefore the Lord must take care of him and help fight his battles.
– Wiersbe

We can disagree with people in an agreeable way by speaking the truth in love.

1. Seek to understand before being understood.
2. Stop quarrels before they begin.
3. Show that you love people more than you love your viewpoint.
4. Speak less and softly for greater impact.
5. Solicit the help of God with your dispute.

This is Our God // Canvas and Clay // Trust In God // Names

Each week, a new devotional will be available. This devotional is based on the previous Sunday's message, and it aims to take the message further and help you dive deeper into the topic. You can find the devotionals at the link, or sign up to receive weekly emails.

You can watch or listen to past messages online!

Your financial gift to support what God is doing at The Ridge makes ministry possible. Thank you for your generosity—we cannot do any of what God has asked us to do here at The Ridge without your faithful and cheerful giving.