(For reference, all scripture verses are from the New International Version (NIV), unless noted.)

More than likely, you have heard the saying…”ignorance is bliss.”

But is it…really?

I believe that many will say an emphatic “YES,” because the truth can be painful.

I get that. Yes, the truth can hurt. It can be down right excruciating or unbearable at times. But personally, I will take the truth over comfort, happiness, and contentment any time of the day.

You may be asking yourself “Why?”

Today, ignorance of the truth can be downright dangerous. About three years ago, God woke me up to some harsh truths about our world that, to this day, I’m still working on comprehending. I began a journey of truth and faith that has led me down some of life’s darkest paths. (Perhaps I’m just late to the party. After all, I always try to be positive and make lemonade out of life’s lemons. I always want to think the best about others, don’t most people?) However, I think deep down, I knew these worldly truths, but I could not or just did not want to fathom the amount of evil that actually exists.

It’s not all been negative, though. On this journey, I’ve been witness to some incredible transformations that only God could orchestrate. I’m not sure why He chose to awaken me to these truths, but I know that He has a purpose. Most of what I have learned is next to impossible to explain to others in a clear and concise way, so I usually don’t even try. Perhaps His reasoning will be revealed to me some day. Maybe then, I will be able to share the details with you. For now, I am trusting Him and urging you all to seek out the truth; the truths of the world, and more importantly, God’s Truths.

There is only one thing that has kept me sane these past three years, and that is God’s Truths. I have come to understand that only His ways should be our ways. The world will tell you otherwise, because the enemy has an agenda. I have also come to understand that all too well these past three years. Evil is everywhere. Sometimes it’s lurking, hidden in an obscure corner; sometimes it’s right out in the open. Lately, it seems to be smacking us right in the face.

Studies have shown that people don’t take the time to read and research things for themselves, but would rather listen to “trusted” spokespeople. After all, who has the time for that? But don’t take my word for it, research it!

In closing, here are some of my favorite “Truths” from our Heavenly Father. And remember, God encourages us to look to His Word for guidance. He commands us to do the research!

“But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.” Deuteronomy 4:29

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3: 5-6

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

“But He said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

Have a blessed and beautiful week!