Charm and eloquence have always frightened me as they make for a potent combination, able to convince and manipulate the unsuspecting.
We are to be wise in looking at the writing style, popularity, or education of the one writing. Platforms and popularity should not be the deciding factor in who we read. In these days which we are living, many are sharing their thoughts and opinions but not everything shared is truth – God’s Truth.
Every word both read and written needs to tested against God’s Word:
- Does God’s Word support what is being written?
- Can the author back up their thoughts with Scripture?
“It is truth which we must look for in Holy Writ, not cunning of words. All Scripture ought to be read in the spirit in which it was written … Therefore we ought to read books which are devotional and simple, as well as those which are deep and difficult. And let not the weight of the writer be a stumbling-block to thee, whether he be of little or much learning, but let the love of the pure Truth draw thee to read. Ask not, who hath said this or that, but look to what he says.”
(The Imitation of Christ by Thomas A. Kempis, The First Book, page 8)
As one who reads and shares on books, I constantly ask myself the above questions and then these as well:
- Am I leading people to books which will edify and grow them In God’s Word?
- Am I leading anyone astray in the books I help to promote?
We are not to let our love or enjoyment of an author’s word lead us to compromise on Truth. Thomas A. Kempis goes on to further state:
“Men pass away, but the truth of the Lord endureth forever.”
Authors and writers may come and go. But all of God’s words will be with us forever. His plans will all come to fruition. It is His Word alone which will never let us down nor fail us.
“The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.” (Isaiah 40:8, NASB)
May we be wise and discerning in the words we read and absorb into our hearts and minds.
Seek truth always –
God’s Truth.
Last week I read and reviewed the latest book by Susan Chamberlain Shipe, Follow Your Heart & Other Lies. In this book, the author addresses eighteen sayings or quotes we often hear thrown around. She then asks the question, “But are they biblical?” You can read my review HERE. Then perhaps let her book lead you to search Scriptures and see for yourself.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
**There will be not be a new linkup next week due to Thanksgiving and preparations to be done. Instead, this one will remain open for two weeks.
**This is an edited post from 2017 HERE.
Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash
This is so vital. People so often follow others who make them feel a certain way or who sound good in some way but who are off base scripturally in what they share. We need to constantly take in God’s truth and measure everything by it.
Good counsel, Joanne. We need to build ourselves and others up in the faith and use His Word as the standard.
Very true, we have a responsibility as Christians!
I find myself asking God for discernment often, as I do my best to follow in HIs way. Romans 12;2 is a verse I count on as a frequent reminder, especially as I navigate the world of today. Your advice takes it to yet another important level as we consider how we can impact others on their faith journey!
So important!
We need discernment to filter all the noise and self-promotion.
In this day of deception we need discernment in what we hear and read. It is easy to be taken in by a moving story to only find out later it wasn’t true.
Yes and amen.
“Authors and writers may come and go. But all of God’s words will be with us forever. His plans will all come to fruition. It is His Word alone which will never let us down nor fail us.”
Thank you for writing today, and highlighting these truths and Susan.
As a facilitator of Christian discipleship classes I’m constantly pointing our students back to the Bible. Read the Bible. Now God’s words more than man’s words.
Thank you!
I want to be a writer that encourages, but I also am responsible for speaking truth. I am always very careful to base my posts on scripture.
Also, sometimes it is very discouraging to follow a good speaker / writer and then discover later they fell off the path and went into error. I always wonder … should we throw out anything they’ve ever said? Also, we should pray for restoration.
A great post Joanne & very true indeed.
Blessings, Jennifer
I have my great-grandmother’s Imitation of Christ – it is a book cherished not just because she owned it and used it, but because of the wisdom in it – that is still so salient today. The weight of the man is not as important as the weight of his words – and how those words weigh against scripture. Thank you for bring A Kempis truths to us today!
Joanne, thanks for these wise words of care and caution.
Happiest Thanksgiving to you, friend.