Truth is an acquired taste. We like the idea of truth when it benefits us. But sometimes truth is difficult to accept or comprehend. Sometimes it hurts. And when it hurts, we push against it. We avoid or deny or try to explain it away.

It is much easier to deceive ourselves, to avoid the sometimes convicting truths of self-awareness, than to face it with courage and humility. We tend to defend, deflect, and rationalize.

A choice to believe deception is a shackle on our souls. False perspective entraps us.  Perpetuating deception eliminates choices. But we have the key to unlock these chains. The key is truth.

Adopting a true perspective centers on a willingness to pursue the truth. John tells us that truth is fully available through adherence to the teachings of Jesus.

The truth sets us free. It unlocks the chains of inaccuracy and falsity. Freedom may not feel like we imagined – it comes with the companionship of responsibility – but it is freedom nonetheless.

It takes courage and boldness to pursue the truth. And although pursuing truth is difficult, in the end, there is nothing sweeter. Nothing more nourishing or necessary. Nothing more challenging and nothing more freeing.