Walking in the truth

(Charles Spurgeon)

"For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, even as you walk in the truth." 3 John 3

The truth was in Gaius-and Gaius walked in the truth.
If the first had not been the case-the second could never have occurred.
If the second could not be said of him-the first would have been a mere pretense.

Truth must enter into the soul, penetrate and saturate it-or else it is of no value. Doctrines held as a matter of mere creed-are like bread in the hand, which ministers no nourishment to the body. But doctrine accepted by the heart, is as food digested, which, by assimilation, sustains and builds up the body.

Truth must be a living force in us, an active energy, an indwelling reality, a part of the warp and woof of our being.

It is a rule of nature-that the inward affects the outward, as light shines from the center of the lantern through the glass. When, therefore, the truth is kindled within-its brightness soon beams forth in the outward life and conduct.

It is said that the food of certain silkworms, colors the cocoons of silk which they spin. In the same way, the nutriment upon which a man's inward nature lives-gives a tinge to every word and deed proceeding from him.

To walk in the truth, imports a life of integrity, holiness, faithfulness, and simplicity-the natural product of those principles of truth which the gospel teaches, and which the Spirit of God enables us to receive. We may judge of the secrets of the soul-by their manifestation in the man's life.

Be it ours today, O gracious Spirit, to be ruled and governed by Your divine authority, so that nothing false or sinful may reign in our hearts, lest it extend its malignant influence to our daily walk among men.