The Belt of Truth
Why is truth described as a belt?
In a few recent posts we have considered the need for physical clothing. Then we moved to consider its spiritual implications. And by “spiritual” here I include everything not physical. In other words, I’m stating something that, at least over time, becomes obvious to most of us. We need covering in the areas of mental, emotional, and spiritual attacks. Some of these wounds can be self-inflicted, like when we get into the bad habit of calling ourselves degrading names. But there are also unseen and often unknowable enemies who wish us harm. That’s really a polite way of saying they want to destroy us. Why this is the case can be a good topic for another time. Right now, let’s consider Paul’s advice to the people in a church he started in the city of Ephesus.
Recall his initial statement.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
Ephesians 6:10-13 (ESV)
He then continues by describing different suit-of-armor items and linking them to critical truths he wants his reader then (timely advice for the people he knows) and also for those who would come after — including us. This makes these principles timeless.
He starts by talking about the belt.
Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth,
Ephesians 6:14a
Why did he begin with this?
I believe it t is because the belt holds everything together. It keeps our pants up — important for a warriors in a battle. It also holds weaponry for quick access. Take a look at the modern policeman or soldier’s belt to see how important the belt is even today. Also note its work isn’t always obvious. It isn’t flashy, it just is.
And like a belt, truth holds things together as well.
Truth is not a weapon to be used.
It is a fundamental principle of life.
We don’t invent truth. Rather, we discover it or are taught it, and then, hopefully we live it and teach it ourselves to others. As truth binds to us, we must bind ourselves to it. This is called living honestly.
Many today do not either understand this or have been taught to question it — even to go so far as to say there is no such thing as truth. It doesn’t exist.
But belts exist.
I know it is fashionable to over-analyze and parse meanings, but when we do this, we lose sight of the critical importance of truths to being able to live the best lives possible. With truth comes meaning. Not necessarily deep meanings, but important even when simple and obvious.
I think most of childhood education should be about teaching truths as real and useful. Wisdom can then be understood as the correct management and application of what is true.
Truth and love are linked.
Both are timeless just like God.
This tells me that God operates in truth and love. You don’t have one without the others.
This does not mean that deception and lies shouldn’t exist.
The truth of the matter is they do, but they are anti-God forces that exist because God created a universe where his subjects can make choices, even bad ones, that then have consequences.
This goes back to the reason why Paul tells us to suit up and buckle up. As we resist evil (those who have chosen to oppose love, truth and God), the special belt we are privileged to wear will enable us to stand firm and resist enemy attacks.
Now a few final practical observations on the subject of truth.
Those who speak truth and live honest lives sleep better a night. They spend less time arguing, worrying, and envying, because, the truth of the matter is, life is short and liars eventually are exposed as frauds.
Finally, those who live as if God is fundamentally truthful are better able to hold on when persecuted. I believe, in the end, they will be vindicated. Stand firm.