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Monday, May 7, 2007

Being Honest with God's Word

Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. (2 Corinthians 4:1-2

I came across this passage in my devotions this morning. It always gives me pause, and I have to spend some time in reflection. Is it true of me? Paul is saying here that a minister is to be scrupulously honest (having "renounced the hidden things of dishonesty"). He is to never misuse the Word of God, or use it deceitfully. Rather, his job is to simply proclaim and live the truth openly and honestly before all. The results are up to God. Pray for me that I will be able to live up to the high standard God sets here in His word.

You see, it is very easy to take just portions of the Bible, and use them to make a point. People and groups with hidden agendas are often guilty of this. They will lift a verse of scripture out of context and use it for something completely unrelated to what it really means. A ridiculous example, but one which I've heard before, is that some go so far as to say the Bible denies the existence of God. And they quote the Bible to make their point, "There is no God." (Psalm 14:1) But they quote absurdly out of context, for that verse says, "The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God." (Psalm 14:1)

We must always be careful to be honest with God's Word. Someday, after all, we'll stand before our Lord and give an account. Ministers have to give a particular account of how they have handled their ministry and His Word. But we all will give an account. Won't it be better to hear Him say, "Well done - you were faithful and honest with my Word - both in how you taught it, and how you lived it." May it be so with each of us.

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