Feels Right. But Is It True?
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Zach Dillon’s sermon from July 27, 2025!
These days, it feels harder than ever to know what’s actually true. With a nonstop stream of social media posts, podcast takes, and breaking headlines, truth can feel shaky.
We’re not lacking content—especially spiritual content. But let’s be honest: a lot of what we’re consuming is shaped more by emotion than by Scripture.
At some point, we stopped asking the right question. Instead of “Is this from God?” we settle for “Does this feel right?” But the question that truly anchors us is this: Is it grounded in God’s Word?
That’s why the Bible matters. It’s not just spiritual advice or inspiration. It’s solid ground. It’s truth that doesn’t bend with culture or emotions.
In 1845, British explorer Sir John Franklin led two ships in search of the Northwest Passage. The crew was confident and well-supplied. But their expedition ended in tragedy—not because they didn’t have what they needed, but because their navigation was just a little off. In the Arctic, magnetic declination caused their compasses to point slightly away from true north. It seemed like a small thing, but that small error led them miles off course—and eventually cost them their lives.
That’s how deception works. It doesn’t always feel wrong. It looks close enough to the truth—until it’s not. And by the time you realize it, the damage is already done.
The same thing happens spiritually. There’s a constant pull to drift—toward what’s popular, what sounds good, what feels safe. But if we’re not anchored in God’s truth, we won’t stand firm.
Even Jesus experienced this. In the wilderness, Satan tempted Him by twisting Scripture. But Jesus didn’t push back with emotion or logic—He responded with, “It is written.” He knew the Word well enough to recognize when it was being distorted. That same kind of clarity is available to us too—if we stay in the Word.
So why trust the Bible?
It’s based on eyewitness accounts. The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus were recorded by people who saw it happen.
It’s historically reliable. The New Testament has more manuscript support than any other ancient text.
It tells one unified story. Written over 1,500 years by dozens of authors in different cultures and languages, the Bible weaves together a consistent, cohesive narrative.
And maybe most importantly: it transforms lives. Across generations and continents, it continues to change hearts and heal brokenness.
But here’s the thing: just knowing the Bible isn’t enough. It has to shape how we live.
So what does that look like?
Watch for drift. False teaching isn’t always loud or obvious. It’s usually subtle. It sounds spiritual. That’s why discernment matters.
Stay rooted in the Word. Not out of guilt or obligation—but because it’s the only thing that won’t shift.
Don’t walk alone. We all need people who speak truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. Who in your life has permission to challenge you when you start to drift?
Let God’s Word define reality. Not your emotions. Not your politics. Not what’s trending. Truth isn’t crowdsourced—it’s revealed by God.
Psalm 119:142 says, “Your law is truth.” That’s not just poetic—it’s deeply practical. Especially when life falls apart.
It’s one thing to say you believe the Bible is true. But what about when the marriage is on the rocks? When your feelings pull in the opposite direction of your convictions? When obedience costs you something?
Truth isn’t always easy. But it’s always good. And when we let it shape us, Jesus’ promise comes alive: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).
This isn’t about having all the answers or perfect theology.It’s about staying grounded when everything around you feels unstable. It’s about being shaped—not by pressure or trends—but by something eternal.
God doesn’t correct us because He’s angry. He corrects us because He loves us.
Tap to watch Pastor Zach Dillon’s full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: The Eternal Truth of God's Word
Reading: Psalm 119:137–144
Devotional: In a world filled with shifting opinions and fleeting trends, God's Word stands as an eternal truth. The Psalmist reminds us that God's righteousness is everlasting and His instructions are true. Today, reflect on how you can anchor your life more firmly in God's unchanging Word. Are there areas where you've allowed cultural voices or personal feelings to overshadow Biblical truth?
Day 2: Resisting Deception Through God's Word
Reading: Matthew 4:1–11
Devotional: Jesus' encounter with Satan in the wilderness demonstrates the power of God's Word to combat deception. Notice how Jesus responds to each temptation with "It is written." In your own life, what areas are you most vulnerable to deception? It might be in relationships, career decisions, or spiritual matters. Take time to identify specific Scriptures that speak truth into those areas. Write them down and keep them accessible.
Day 3: Building a Life Rooted in Scripture
Reading: Psalm 1
Devotional: The image of a tree planted by streams of water beautifully illustrates a life grounded in God's Word. This Psalm contrasts the stability of the righteous with the instability of the wicked. How deep are your spiritual roots? Consider your daily habits—are you consistently "feeding" on God's Word? Challenge yourself to start each day by meditating on a verse or passage.
Day 4: The Community of Faith
Reading: Hebrews 10:19–25
Devotional: Today's passage emphasizes the importance of Christian community in our spiritual growth. The author of Hebrews encourages believers to "spur one another on toward love and good deeds" and to not give up meeting together. In a world that often promotes individualism, how can you more intentionally engage with your faith community? Consider joining a small group, finding an accountability partner, or committing to regular church attendance. Remember, we were not meant to navigate our faith journey alone.
Day 5: Making God's Word Your True North
Reading: 2 Timothy 3:14–17
Devotional: Paul's words to Timothy highlight the sufficiency and power of Scripture. In a world full of competing voices and opinions, God's Word remains our ultimate guide—our true north. Reflect on the areas of your life where you struggle to trust God's guidance. Are there decisions or situations where you've relied more on worldly wisdom than Biblical principles? Take time to pray, asking God to increase your trust in His Word.
There’s an opportunity for you to grow in your spiritual journey, build meaningful community, and truly get connected. At Radiant Church, we’re passionate about helping people grow in faith, encounter the presence of God, and be part of a church grounded in Spirit and truth.