So many issues! So many opinions! So many quarrels!
One thing in common: Biblical and Worldly perspectives all tangled up.
It is impossible to come to an agreement when people are debating two totally different things.
One person shares based on their life experiences and rocks are thrown because it is not someone else's life experience. Two different perspectives trying to become one...impossible.
The people throwing rocks want everyone to see their point of view, but won't give the same grace. They think the other is just plain wrong. Two different perspective trying to become one...impossible.
What does the Bible say?
Philippians 2:3 "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather in humility value others above yourself, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Sometimes this looks like keeping your mouth shut or your fingers off the 'post' button. Sometimes this is not sharing gossip. There is no BUT or IF at the end of this statement in Philippians as the world would have you think.
What does the world say?
If the person or group has the same view I have, I will look out for the interest of those in the group. I will promote the group, protect the group and share the group...if they have the same view I do. The first amendment even protects people to do the exact oppose it of Philippians 2:3 if you think about it!
What does the Bible say?
2 Timothy 2:23 "Have nothing to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels." There is not a BUT or IF. Actually, in vs. 24 it says, "but be kind to everyone." It does not say only if they agree with you.
What does the world say?
I have the right to shout my view as loud as I want, not thinking of anyone else. I don't get what I want or people to listen unless I am loud and sometimes even violent.
What does the Bible say?
Galatians 5:22-23 "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." There is not an IF in this scripture.
What does the world say? Only love if I am getting something in return. Only have joy if things are going my way or I have money. Peace only happens when things are going my way. Patience is nonsense. Kindness gets you no where. Goodness is different for everyone and it is good if it feels good, looks good or tastes good. Why be faithful? Gentleness is weakness. There is no need to deny myself anything or be self-controlled.
When someone has an issue with a Biblical truth, I immediately discern if their opposition comes from them filtering their response through their imperfect life and worldly situations.
Training your mind to think with an eternal mindset is hard work and intentional.
Determine where your mind goes when it wanders. When you think about issues, are you tangling Biblical and worldly perspectives together?
Published first on 10/3/2017 at Blogger.com