It all begins with truth, a concept that may seem controversial in today’s world. Each person has their own version of truth, influenced by their perspective. But when I speak of truth, I refer to the foundation of our faith, as depicted in the armor of God.

Paul, while imprisoned, illustrated the importance of truth in Ephesians 6:14:

“Put on truth as a belt to strengthen you to stand in triumph. Put on holiness as the protective armor that covers your heart.”

Ephesians 6:14 TPT

This metaphor highlights the first step in preparing for any battle—truth. Throughout my 50-plus years, I have seen that truth is paramount. Without it, we may fight battles that aren’t real, often leading to unnecessary conflict and suffering.

In my work as a pastor and recovery activist, I have walked alongside many individuals facing monumental challenges. These challenges often stem from lies, reinforced by society. Romans 10:17 states:

“Faith, then, is birthed in a heart that responds to God’s anointed utterance of the Anointed One.”

Romans 10:17 TPT

Before we hear the Word of God, we may hear and believe in lies. These lies can shape our faith negatively.

Consider how we categorize people: pastors label sins, counselors diagnose conditions, doctors name ailments, and society calls individuals struggling with substance abuse “addicts” and those financially struggling to find housing “homeless.” We reduce people to labels, much like in Jesus’ time, where people were called lepers, tax collectors, or sinners. But when do these labels cease to define us?

Often, the categories we impose are more significant than the individuals’ ability to overcome them. These labels foster separation and isolation, which can exacerbate the very conditions we label. In many churches, this separation is taught, making people feel unworthy of God’s love. These societal and even church-spread lies cause pain and identity crises.

Our true identity is found in our union with Christ. Galatians 3:28 reminds us:

“We no longer see each other in our former state —Jew or non-Jew, rich or poor, male or female—because we’re all one through our union with Jesus Christ.”

Galatians 3:28 TPT

When our faith is founded on truth, we recognize that we are not our labels. We are children of God, pure and holy. Just as a tree effortlessly grows, we can embody holiness naturally because it is our true nature.

False labels lead to separation, the very thing God created us to overcome. In Genesis 2:18, God said:

“It is not good for the man to be alone.”

Genesis 2:18 TPT

We were created for connection, for relationships that reflect God’s love and community. When we allow false labels to define us, we separate ourselves from these vital connections. Without connection, we can never be whole, never be healed, and will not build a life worth living.

Connection is central to our faith and existence. Jesus emphasized this in John 15:5, where he said:

“I am the sprouting vine and you’re my branches. As you live in union with me as your source, fruitfulness will stream from within you—but when you live separated from me you are powerless.”

John 15:5 TPT

Our life and growth are dependent on our connection to Christ and to one another. False labels disrupt this connection, isolating us and hindering our spiritual growth.

The impact of separation is profound. It not only affects our spiritual health but also our mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that loneliness and isolation can lead to a range of health issues, including depression, anxiety, and even physical illness. The enemy uses lies and false identities to keep us isolated, knowing that in isolation, we are vulnerable.

Many are taught to expect a lifelong struggle against sin, which can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. A wise quote often attributed to C. S. Lewis is, “You are what you believe.” If we believe we are whole in Christ, we can shed these false identities and lies. Let Jesus guide our Christianity, allowing us to live out our true identity.

Paul’s instruction to put on the belt of truth is no mistake. The confusion lies in our understanding of truth. It should not be about superficial matters but about how we see ourselves through God’s love. Our identity should be grounded in the love of God, the union with Christ, and the heart of the Father. Accept this divine identity above any false label imposed by the world, the church, or others. Remember, only our Creator has the right to define us.

As we embrace this truth, we fulfill the prayer of Jesus in John 17:21:

“I pray for them all to be joined together as one even as you and I, Father, are joined together as one. I pray for them to become one with us so that the world will recognize that you sent me.”

John 17:21 TPT

This unity with Christ is our true identity, transcending all labels and lies. It begins with truth, and in this truth, we find our true selves.

Moreover, our connection to one another is a reflection of our connection to Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 says:

“Just as the human body is one, though it has many parts that together form one body, so too is Christ. For by one Spirit we all were immersed and mingled into one single body.”

1 Corinthians 12:12-13 TPT

We are meant to function together, supporting and uplifting one another. False labels hinder this unity, causing division and weakening the body of Christ.

In practical terms, this means we must actively combat the lies and labels that society places on us and others. We must see ourselves and others through the eyes of Christ, recognizing the inherent worth and potential in every individual. This perspective not only heals our own identity but also transforms our relationships and communities.

As we embrace this truth and foster genuine connections, we create a supportive environment where healing and growth can occur. This community, rooted in the truth of Christ’s love, becomes a place where individuals can thrive, fully living out their God-given potential.

It begins with truth, and the truth of our union in Christ is the foundation of our identity. By rejecting false labels and embracing our true identity, we overcome separation and isolation. We were created for connection, and in this connection, we find wholeness, healing, and a life worth living. Let us stand firm with the belt of truth, living out our true identity in Christ and fostering genuine connections with one another.

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