We live our lives based on what we think is true.

For example, if I think it’s true that it’s going to rain, then I’m going to grab an umbrella when I head outside. But if I don’t, I won’t.

If I think it’s true that my child is about to get hit by a car, then I’m going to quickly pull him to safety. But if I don’t, I won’t.

Here’s where I’m going with this.

A popular expression these days is that “it’s all relative.” I’ve also heard people say: “You have your truth and I have my truth.”

But the idea of total relativity is chaos. Maybe you’ve heard the illustration of the woman who ran a red light and killed someone in another car. In the courtroom the judge asked her why she didn’t stop because “red means stop.” She shrugged and said: “It’s all relative. Red means stop to you but not to me.”

It’s meant to show how total relativity quickly descends into chaos. But when people are talking about faith and someone says “it’s all relative,” I wonder if it isn’t mean to undermine the idea that we can have any certainty about God, morality, or the love and truth of Jesus.

That’s why I think we should humbly yet confidently stand firm on the trustworthy words of Jesus. He doesn’t allow us relativity. Instead he tells us like it is—not to be harsh, but to be loving! He wants the best for us. Loving people are honest with those they love. That’s why he tells us the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Toward the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says: “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matthew 7:13-14).

If I think that’s true, then I’m going to find out more and live my life accordingly. If I don’t, I won’t.

We live our lives based on what we think is true. So let’s humbly yet confident stand firm on the trustworthy words of Jesus.

By Matthew Ruttan

–Today’s devotional is related to my most recent sermon: “You can’t stand on quicksand.” You can access YouTube or audio-only download options here.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.