Proverbs 23:23 Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.
Although salvation is God’s gift, spiritual growth often comes at a cost. Truth may require [1] Time – One must devote time to reading Scripture, prayer, study, meditation, and learning. Wisdom is rarely acquired instantly. [2] Humility – Truth often confronts cherished opinions and personal pride. A teachable spirit is willing to say: “I was wrong.” Pride resists truth; humility embraces it. [3] Sacrifice – Many believers throughout history have paid dearly for the truth. Some have sacrificed reputation, friendships, careers, possessions, freedom, and even their lives. Yet they considered truth worth more than temporary comfort. [4] Obedience – Truth is not fully possessed until it is practised. Knowledge without obedience produces spiritual stagnation. God reveals more truth to those who walk in the truth they already know.
‘Sell it not.’ Once truth has been obtained, it must never be exchanged for anything else. Many people “sell” truth for popularity, acceptance, wealth, convenience, pleasure, compromise, fear of opposition, or worldly success. The believer must refuse every offer that requires abandoning God’s truth. Truth is too valuable to trade away. A person may lose many earthly things and still recover, but once truth is abandoned, the consequences can be devastating.
To be continued…
Living the Word 