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The Truth Shall Set You Free

Emily Tenter

April 25, 2020 • Sharon Rene • Ephesians 6:10–17, John 8:32

Have you ever been deceived? Confused, lied to, twisted around, and pulled into a pit of despair? We all have. Deception is one of the enemy’s favorite tactics.

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The devil is “the father of lies” (John 8:44). He tells us we aren’t good enough—that God couldn’t possibly love us. He uses the world’s voices to shout lies: “Make straight As at school, join every club that will have you, and dress like a model—then you’ll be worth something.”

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We start to believe these lies and pursue popularity, good grades, and trophies above all else. We forget that true value comes from Jesus, our Creator and the One who has already done everything needed for us to be in relationship with Him (Ephesians 2:8-9).

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The good news? God’s truth protects us from the devil’s lies. In Ephesians, the apostle Paul uses armor to describe the way that truth protects us: it reminds us of all we have in Jesus. As Christians, we are called to wear “truth like a belt” (Ephesians 6:14). Just like no Roman soldier would go to battle half-dressed, we can’t fight the devil’s lies if we aren’t clothed in God’s truth. The truth of the good news of Jesus is our protection, our shield, and our sword in the midst of any struggle. When we know Jesus, no lie can separate us from God’s immense love for us (Romans 8:38-39).

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If you know Jesus, talk with Him about lies you’re dealing with. Ask Him to replace the lies with His truth. Trust His Holy Spirit to show you what lies you are believing and to lead you to the truth of God’s Word. Jesus is the One who can drown out the enemy’s lies. • Sharon Rene

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• What lies do you believe about yourself? Write them down and give them to God.

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• Can you think of truths from the Bible that refute these lies?

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• If you can’t find a Bible passage to refute a lie you’re believing, who is a trusted Christian in your life—such as a camp counselor or pastor—who can help you find some verses?

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You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. John 8:32 (CSB)

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