Referees have a tough assignment. They must keep the game going, uphold the rules, keep every participant safe, and make sure not to create an advantage for either side. It’s a monumental task, all the while facing unbelievable pressure from the stands. But, in the midst of all that goes on during a game, the primary job of a referee is to represent truth. Have you noticed that all referees make truth statements: “No catch…out of bounds…foul on you…off sides…touchdown…no good…time has expired.” They don’t have favorites, aren’t rooting for one team over the other, and are simply stating the truth as they see it. Once the whistle blows, one side likes the call while, inevitably, the other side doesn’t. Regardless of the call, the referee makes someone happy and someone angry. Referees can never please everyone. That’s why they never try.

Jesus said, “I am the Truth.” What an amazing statement. Jesus didn’t come to please anyone, and He didn’t come to advance anyone’s agenda. Jesus came to represent God. He lived for an audience of one, learning early on that a person can’t make everyone happy. He only lived to bring glory to God. He represented truth, and when He came on the scene, some liked His message and others didn’t. We must learn that we can’t please all people. We must know Jesus, the Truth, if we are going to live to please the Lord. A referee must know the rules of the game that he or she officiates. To please God, you must know His Word and live it out in your life to show the Way for others.