Living in Truth: The Pathway to God's Presence
Summary
Psalm 15 invites us to consider what it means to truly dwell in the presence of God. The psalm asks, “Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain?” and answers with a portrait of a person whose life is marked by truth and integrity. God’s presence is not something to be taken lightly or entered into casually; it is a place of glory, power, and holiness. To stand in that presence, our lives must reflect the truth—both in our character and in our actions.
Truth is not just a set of facts or a philosophical idea; it is established by God Himself. Jesus came to testify to the truth, and the Holy Spirit guides us into all truth. God’s Word is our anchor in a world full of deception and confusion. When we live according to the truth, we are able to stand firm, even when the world around us is shaking.
Psalm 15 describes three main areas where truth and integrity must be evident: our character, our conversations, and our conduct. A blameless walk and righteous actions show that our faith is real, not just a performance. Our words matter deeply—truthful speech, free from slander and gossip, honors God and builds up others. And our conduct—keeping promises, refusing to exploit or take advantage, and honoring those who fear the Lord—demonstrates that our integrity is not for show, but is rooted in our relationship with God.
Living this way is not always easy. There are temptations to shade the truth, to take shortcuts, or to compromise when no one is watching. But integrity means doing what is right, not what is easy, even at personal cost. The story of Eli the lighthouse keeper reminds us that steadfastness in truth can have a ripple effect, blessing not only ourselves but those around us.
Ultimately, truth and integrity are the pathway to God’s presence. We cannot live this way in our own strength, but through the blood of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit, we can become people who are unshakable, anchored in God’s truth. Let us search our hearts, commit to truthful words and actions, and pursue integrity so that the Spirit can move powerfully among us.
Key Takeaways
- God’s Presence Requires Truth
Experiencing the presence of God is not about religious performance, but about living in truth and integrity. God’s holiness exposes any darkness or deceit in us, and only those who walk in truth can truly abide with Him. The desire to dwell in God’s presence should drive us to examine our hearts and pursue authenticity before Him. [55:08]
- Truthful Character is Integrity in Action
Integrity is more than avoiding lies; it is about being the same person in private as in public. Our actions must align with our faith, even when no one is watching. True character is revealed in the choices we make when it would be easier to compromise, and God honors those who choose what is right over what is convenient. [58:02]
- Our Words Reflect Our Spiritual Life
The way we speak—whether we avoid slander, gossip, and dishonesty—reveals the state of our hearts. Words have the power to build up or destroy, and truthful speech is a mark of the new life we have in Christ. Speaking the truth in love requires both honesty and compassion, ensuring our words honor God and others. [59:25]
- Integrity Means Keeping Promises and Resisting Corruption
True integrity is seen in keeping our word, even when it is costly or inconvenient. It also means refusing to take advantage of others or to be swayed by bribes or personal gain. Our actions must back up our words, and our commitments should be trustworthy, reflecting the faithfulness of God Himself. [01:02:17]
- Truth and Integrity Make Us Unshakable
When we live in truth, the Holy Spirit anchors us so that we are not moved by the storms of life or the shifting values of the world. Like the lighthouse keeper who refused to dim his light, steadfastness in integrity becomes a beacon for others and brings God’s blessing. Living this way is only possible through the Spirit’s power, but it leads to a life that is firm, remembered, and fruitful. [01:04:49]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[50:48] - Church is Meant to Be Joyful
[51:05] - Jesus Knows Your Story
[52:47] - Baptism and Greeting Guests
[53:00] - The Importance of Truth
[53:31] - Truth Established by God
[54:06] - Psalm 15: Living the Truth
[54:23] - Reading Psalm 15
[55:08] - God’s Presence Requires Truth
[57:33] - The Practice of Truth
[58:02] - Truthful Character
[59:25] - Truthful Conversation
[01:01:43] - Truthful Conduct
[01:04:32] - The Product of Truth: Unshakable Life
[01:05:25] - The Lighthouse Keeper: A Story of Integrity
[01:07:26] - Searching Our Hearts for Truth
[01:09:08] - Living a Life of Truth and Integrity
[01:09:26] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
[01:10:41] - Devotional Resources and Farewell
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Psalm 15 – Truth, Integrity, and God’s Presence
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### Bible Reading
- Psalm 15
"Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others; who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the Lord; who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind; who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken."
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Psalm 15, what kind of person is able to dwell in God’s presence? What specific qualities or actions are listed? [54:23]
2. In the sermon, what does the pastor say about the connection between truth and experiencing God’s presence? [55:08]
3. What are the three main areas where truth and integrity should show up in our lives, as described in the sermon? [57:47]
4. What does the psalm say is the result for those who live with truth and integrity? [01:04:32]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think God places such a high value on truth and integrity for those who want to be close to Him? [55:08]
2. The sermon says, “Integrity is more than avoiding lies; it is about being the same person in private as in public.” Why is this kind of consistency important in our relationship with God and others? [58:02]
3. The pastor mentions that our words can either build up or destroy. How does truthful speech reflect our spiritual life and relationship with Christ? [59:25]
4. The story of Eli the lighthouse keeper was shared as an example of integrity. What does this story teach us about the impact of steadfastness in truth, even when it’s costly? [01:05:25]
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### Application Questions
1. The psalm says, “Who keeps an oath even when it hurts.” Can you think of a time when you had to keep a promise even though it was difficult? What did you learn from that experience? [01:02:17]
2. The sermon challenges us to search our hearts for any hidden lies, deception, or compromise. Is there an area in your life where you are tempted to “shade the truth” or take shortcuts? What would it look like to bring that into the light this week? [01:07:26]
3. Our words matter. Is there someone you need to apologize to for something you said that wasn’t truthful or was hurtful? What’s one step you can take to make it right? [59:25]
4. The pastor said, “Integrity means doing what is right, not what is easy, even at personal cost.” What is one area where you are being challenged to choose what is right over what is convenient? [58:51]
5. The story of Eli the lighthouse keeper shows that integrity can have a ripple effect. Who in your life is watching your example, and how might your choices influence them? [01:05:25]
6. The sermon reminds us that we can’t live this way in our own strength, but only through Jesus and the Holy Spirit. What is one way you can rely more on God’s help to live with truth and integrity this week? [01:08:37]
7. The psalm promises that those who live this way “will never be shaken.” What would it look like for you to be “unshakable” in your faith and character, even when life gets hard? [01:04:32]
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray, asking God to search their hearts, help them speak and act truthfully, and give them strength to live with integrity in every area of life.
Devotional
Day 1: The Presence of God Requires Truth
To experience the presence of God is to stand in the fire of His glory, where the Holy Spirit moves in power and nothing else compares. Scripture teaches that dwelling with God is not just a privilege but a calling for those whose lives are marked by truth and integrity. God Himself is truth, and only those who walk in honesty and uprightness can truly abide with Him. When we approach God, we must do so with hearts free from deceit, for His radiance exposes all darkness. If you desire to draw near to God, let your life be a reflection of His truth, seeking to live with integrity in every area. [55:08]
Psalm 15:1-2 (ESV)
"O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill? He who walks blamelessly and does what is right and speaks truth in his heart;"
Reflection: Is there any area of your life where you are hiding or shading the truth? Ask God to reveal it and help you walk in honesty before Him today.
Day 2: Truthful Character—Integrity in Public and Private
A life of integrity means that your actions match your faith, both when others are watching and when you are alone. True character is revealed in the dark, when no one else will ever know your choices. God calls us to be consistent, to do what is right even when it is difficult or unnoticed. Integrity is not just about avoiding lies but about being real with God and others, living transparently in the Spirit’s light. When you walk in integrity, you walk securely, and your life becomes a testimony of God’s truth. [58:02]
Proverbs 10:9 (ESV)
"Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out."
Reflection: When faced with a choice today, will you do what is right even if no one else will ever know? What would it look like to choose integrity in that moment?
Day 3: Truthful Conversation—Speaking the Truth in Love
Our words have power, and God calls us to speak the truth from our hearts, avoiding lies, gossip, and slander. Truthful conversation is not just about honesty but also about expressing truth in love, with tact and kindness. The Holy Spirit is grieved by deceitful speech, but He delights in words that build up and honor others. As new creations in Christ, our speech should reflect our transformed nature, always seasoned with love and guided by the Spirit. Let your words today be honest, loving, and life-giving. [01:00:10]
Colossians 3:9-10 (ESV)
"Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator."
Reflection: Is there a conversation you need to have today where you are tempted to hide the truth or speak harshly? How can you speak honestly and lovingly, reflecting Christ’s character?
Day 4: Truthful Conduct—Let Your Actions Match Your Words
Integrity is not only about what we say but also about what we do. God calls us to keep our promises, honor others, and resist corruption, even when it costs us personally. Our actions must back up our words, showing that we are people who can be trusted. Refusing to take advantage of others, especially the vulnerable, and standing firm against temptation and bribery are marks of a life anchored in truth. When your conduct aligns with God’s standards, you become a beacon of strength and reliability in a world that often bends the truth. [01:03:25]
1 John 3:18 (ESV)
"Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth."
Reflection: Is there a commitment you have made that you need to follow through on, even if it is inconvenient or costly? What step can you take today to ensure your actions match your words?
Day 5: The Product of Truth—Living Unshakable in God’s Presence
When you commit yourself to truth and integrity, you become anchored by the Holy Spirit, able to stand firm even when the world shakes. God promises that those who live in truth will never be shaken, and their lives will be remembered. Like the lighthouse keeper who refused to dim his light for personal gain, your steadfastness in truth becomes a beacon for others and brings God’s blessing. Pursuing truth and integrity is the pathway to experiencing God’s presence and power, enabling you to live unshakable no matter what comes your way. [01:04:49]
Psalm 112:6 (ESV)
"For the righteous will never be moved; he will be remembered forever."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you feel pressure to compromise your integrity? How can you stand firm in truth today, trusting God to anchor and bless you?
Quotes
Truth is established by God. He determines what is true. And Jesus came to testify to the truth. And the Holy Spirit guides us into all truth. Plus, God has given us his word, the Bible, which is truth, so that we can stand firm when deception is rampant. [00:53:34]
And I think deception is rampant in our world today. And so, we need some grounding. And the word of God gives that to us. Now today we're diving into Psalm 15 and it reminds us of the importance of living the truth since it impacts our relationship with the Lord. [00:53:59]
The presence of God requires truth. David starts with the question, who can dwell in your sacred tent? Who can live on your holy mountain? And church, this is about standing in the presence of God, the fire of his glory where the Holy Spirit moves in power. [00:55:10]
To dwell with God, our lives must be marked by truth and integrity. In John 4:24 it says, "God is spirit and his worshippers must worship in spirit and in truth." And we enter his presence with praise and worship. [00:56:16]
So here again, we see how valuable truth is. In Psalm 43:es 3 and 4, it says, "Send forth your light and your truth. Let them guide me. Let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. [00:56:39]
He is the truth. So you think you can enter his presence with lies and a lack of integrity? I don't think so. The radiance of his reality will quickly explo expose the darkness of your deceit. The presence of God requires truth. [00:57:11]
Here in Psalm 15, it lists the traits of someone who lives in God's presence. and truth and integrity shine through all the verses. We can see first of all a truthful character starting in verse two where it talks about the one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous. [00:57:44]
That is describing a life of integrity where our actions match our faith. It's about being real with God and others, living transparently in the spirit's light. Um, Proverbs 10:9 says, "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out." [00:57:59]
Truthful character means doing what's right, not what's easy, especially when no one else will ever know. Do the right thing." So truth is more than just avoiding lies and deceit. It needs to be part of your character. Who you are both in public and in private. [00:58:48]
Truthful speech reflects our new life in Christ. As spiritfilled believers, let's speak with honesty, trusting the spirit to guide our words. Lying is part of the old sinful nature. Deceit is part of the old sinful nature. The new nature in Christ expects truth. [01:00:25]
So our speech should be honest must but must also be enveloped in love. Ephesians 4:15 talks about speaking the truth in love, which means the truth does not need to be expressed in a harsh or hurtful manner. We are to speak the truth in love, which I think includes tact and timing. [01:00:50]
Putting truth into practice includes truthful conversation, being honest, avoiding any kind of slander, and making sure it is expressed in a loving manner. That's truthful conversation. And then there's truthful conduct. In verses four and five, it talks about despising vile behavior and honoring those who fear the Lord. [01:01:33]
Truth means keeping your word even at personal cost because God sees your heart. So in other words, if you say you will do something, do it. Follow through and finish what you start. And if you're not completely sure about a commitment, then underpromise and overd deliver, not the other way around. [01:01:51]
Integrity shows when we refuse to take advantage of others, especially those less fortunate than ourselves. That's integrity. And integrity cannot be bent with a bribe. It stands firm no matter what. 1 John 3:18 reminds us to make sure our actions and our words agree. [01:03:11]
Whatever you say needs to be true and people can count on what you say. Proverbs 21:3 says, "The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just than when we offer him sacrifices." You know, we can say all the right words and we can worship enthusiastically, but if our actions aren't full of integrity, it is meaningless because God sees what happens outside of this Sunday morning gathering when we're worshiping the Lord. [01:03:48]
When we live in truth and integrity, the Holy Spirit anchors us. The world may shake, but we stand firm in God's presence, unmoved by lies, deceit, and temptation. We are firm. Psalm 112:6 says, "Surely the righteous will never be shaken. They will be remembered forever." [01:04:41]
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