Here’s a typical definition of truth – “That which is true or in accordance with fact or reality.” A more realistic definition and explanation, at least in the sense of people’s common usage, is offered by Psychology Today: “Truth is a property not so much of thoughts and ideas but more properly of beliefs and assertions. But to believe or assert something is not enough to make it true.”

 

The truth weighs heavily on my mind these days, since it’s so hard to know what’s factual when it comes to this virus that’s spread around the world. How contagious is it? How dangerous or deadly is it? What are the best short- and long-term precautions to take? What does a safe reopening of business look like? Those are just a few of the questions, but the whole situation leads me to wonder what the truth really is. Of course, this is the age-old question, isn’t it?

 

When the Jewish leaders took Jesus before the Roman governor, Pilate, Jesus said, “the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” In response to this statement, Pilate replied, “What is truth?” (John 18:37-38). Since Pilate did not wait for an answer, it seems that he spoke rhetorically. Some believe that Pilate was essentially joking around or being sarcastic; others wonder if he had a genuine desire to know what was true. Perhaps Pilate believed that finding the truth was only wishful thinking. In any case, the idea is that it’s very difficult, sometimes impossible, to know what’s true.

 

It’s no wonder God ensured that His Word, the Bible, was recorded and preserved as the truth He wants us to know about Himself. In a world where truth can be so hard to determine, it’s comforting to know that truth does exist and that God Himself has given it to us. Jesus confirmed this when He said, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth” (John 17:17). And the apostle Paul pointed out the source and importance of God’s Word: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).

 

I want to know the truth; we all do. Thankfully, we have the truth and I pray it directs our paths as we navigate the questions and uncertainties and doubts and struggles we all face in this life. Truth be told, that’s all we really need.

 

Troy Burns