Word of Truth

When I visited the Holy Land, we had a great tour guide; his knowledge of his homeland, its history and culture as well as his ability to communicate it was invaluable!  Not all "guides," however, are so valuable. Many of us grew up with Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket, and hearing the latter tell us, "always let your conscience be your guide." That broad tidbit of wisdom has proven to be not-so-wise! Paul had this to say about the conscience: "They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them." (Romans 2:15). Did you get that - the conscience either accuses or excuses. Hmm, this Truth makes Mr. Cricket's words troublesome. Our culture with its ever-changing trends has degraded consciences according to Scripture. What would have caused our parents to hustle us out of the room, shut down the radio or television even cause us to blush, are now common-place. While many laws are "on the side" of many offenses against Holy God, Believers should remain faithful to Higher Law. We are called to keep the conscience "trained" according to The eternal Truth of God's Word - it's a daily diligent discipline for serious followers of Christ. Then - and only then "Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left." (Isaiah 30:21). As memorable as the words of our cricket friend may be, let's be sure the conscience in its best spiritually healthy condition: train it by The Word of Truth.