Won (One) in the Spirit

“but speaking the truth in love…”

Ephesians 4:15

By Lori Perkins

Where there is truth, there will always be a counterfeit rise up trying to pervert it. Genesis 3 shows us the craftiness of taking the truth and giving a perverted explanation of it. Of course, “you will surely die” wasn’t implying no longer living; it was deeper than that. It was that part of us designed for intimacy and relationship in connection with the Spirit of the living God. Knowing the truth doesn’t require us to study the counterfeit. We know because the truth is hidden well in our hearts. Proverbs 23:23. It then becomes evident through discernment and the Spirit of Wisdom. 

“that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.”

Ephesians 1:17

So when we see or hear something offensive or that appears spitefully mocking, what do we do?  There is a way to defend the truth, but don’t engage in senseless debates. 

As Believers, what does this look like? It doesn’t mean to stand quietly and idly by. However, the wicked gets a kick out of seeing offense set in. If we look at the reaction demonstrated by Jesus, He responded in truth. Ephesians 4:15. He used the Word as His defense, but He wasn’t surprised and definitely wasn’t offended.  He let the mockers mock Him. Why? Because many of them simply did not know what they were doing. Even amid excruciating pain and heartbreak, He began demonstrating the pure power of intercession. 

But Jesus was saying, “Father, forgive them; 

for they do not know what they are doing.” 

Luke 24:34

There is a big difference between evil ones, those deceived, and desensitized Believers. Reasoning and convincing tend to be the strategy, but these techniques lead to frustration and loss of focus. The lens many have on their eyes and the filter on their ears will hinder their ability to hear and see accurately. This filter cannot be easily penetrated, especially with specific verbiage or the tone of voice. But there’s Good News that can all be bypassed straight to the eyes of the heart and the heart can be opened through the power of the Holy Spirit in truth and love, which works in harmony with one another. Ephesians 1:18. 

We know what God thinks about such things, but we must refer to His Word on how we should respond. James 1:18-20. 

Jesus is our perfect example. 
Love and truth are inseparable, as genuine love rejoices in what is true. We must protect ourselves from being caught in a snare of offense or allowing bitterness and unforgiveness to take root in our hearts. It’s a battle for the Truth. It always has been. It aims to confuse and divide. 

The battle is won in the Spirit.  (And we are one in the Spirit! Ephesians 4:3-4)

So, as we intercede for clarity and for hearts to be softened and awakened, our intercession will make way for the Lord of all creation to be glorified.