1 Peter 1:13 gives us three clues toward gaining victory over our spiritual battle with our minds and emotions. The first of those are seen in the phrase “gird up the loins of your mind,” where we see the importance of knowing the Truth. Jesus said, in John 8:32, “Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” You cannot be free to follow if you do not first know the truth. Knowing the truth starts with an organized systematic study of the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16). To many people attempt to be spiritual experts, but have never personally read or studies the Bible. If I do not know that the Bible says, there is no way that I can have victory over the sinful tendencies of my mind and emotions. Not only do I need to know the Word of God, I must also come to understand it. I must set aside my presuppositions and ask myself “what does the Bible say?”; and in light of what it says, what does it mean. Ignore the chapter and verse divisions, as you seek to see and understand the context of each section of Scripture. Remember, “A text without a context is a pretext!” Finally, if I am going to know the truth, I have to have a teachable spirit. Humility (Proverbs 15:33) is the key to that. There is none of us who has come to understand the Word of God completely, but it should be our desire to come to know it better each day of our lives. We should come to the Scripture with anticipation (Philippians 3:10), for the pages of this wonderful book helps us to see God in all His power. It gives us perspective in the midst of our circumstances. My Friends, see the study of the Word of God as an investment in preparing ourselves not only for the future, but for the present struggles that we are facing, Know the Truth!
