“A man has joy in giving an appropriate answer, And how good and delightful is a word spoken at the right moment–how good it is!”

Proverbs 15:23 AMP

Once again, we are brought face-to-face with reality of the power of our words. Not only can they effect others, they can also have an effect on us! Our verse today references the importance of speaking the truth when giving answers to people. I remember that before I came to Christ, my life was one big lie. It seemed like I could not tell the truth if my life depended on it! That kind of living always leads to a constant worry about being “found out!” A lie seems to cover the problem but in reality, it like putting a band aid on a hemorrhaging wound! Our verse today tells a quite different story. 

The word “joy” hear means more than just having a happy feeling. The Hebrew word here does carry with it a meaning of “joyfulness or happiness” but it is in relation to a worship experience with God! I am reminded of the words of Jesus,

“But a time is coming and is already here when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit [from the heart, the inner self] and in truth; for the Father seeks such people to be His worshipers.”

John 4:23 AMP

We must worship God in “truth!” It is very difficult to worship God if you are hiding things from Him. Notice that two things are connected here, heart and truth. Remember Proverbs 4 tells us to,

“Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.”

Proverbs 4:23 AMP

When we are right with God, worship seems to flow endlessly. When there are issues that are unresolved it is like our prayers are hitting a ceiling and bouncing back. This was the worry of King David as he was confronted with his sin.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a right and steadfast spirit within me. 11Do not cast me away from Your presence And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. 12Restore to me the joy of Your salvation And sustain me with a willing spirit.”

Psalms 51:10-12 AMP

Do you see it? “Restore to me the joy or Your salvation.” It was the peace in his heart that things were right between himself and God! Peace with God means peace with self! It is why Jesus called us to “come unto Him all who are heavy laden and burdened and I will give you rest.” There is no rest in living in a lie. The only place of true freedom is living in the truth. We see this playing out with those who today are denying the reality of gender. Living in confusion only leads to more confusion. Many are realizing that they bought into a lie and are trying to restore themselves. Some unfortunately do not reconcile and seek other ways out. I love the words of Jesus,

“And you will know the truth [regarding salvation], and the truth will set you free [from the penalty of sin].”

John 8:32 AMP

The word of God reveals that truth, it is up to us to accept it! Frustration and fear come when we reject the truth and try to create our own perception of reality. Take time to day to examine the truth and you too can be free! Have a blessed day, Pastor Ken