We live in a world of extremes. Again and again we witness polar opposites heatedly standing against each other. Therefore, we understand how divided this world is in which we live.
Solomon wrote. . .
“(27) An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous, but one whose way is straight is an abomination to the wicked.” (Proverbs 29:27 ESV)
The New Living Translation reads, “(27) The righteous despise the unjust; the wicked despise the godly.”
Here noted are opposing lives with a similar perspective toward each other. Though we might hold a disdain for views that are polarizing in society as we witness extremism from many sides, there remains the need to recognize those things which do remain dynamically opposed to each other. When it comes to truth, though we should speak it in love (Ephesians 4:15) we should not straddle the fence. There are absolutes where there is no middle ground. And though being divisive among others is often not a good manner of being, we must still be willing to stand up for what we believe as we live exemplifying it in our life. To acknowledge the sum of God’s Word is truth (Psalm 119:160) and that those who are of the truth listen to Jesus (John 18:37) — He being the truth Himself (John 14:6) — means that must remain the foundation on which our life rests!
That which is better and right is to be acknowledged as Solomon also wrote. . .
“(13) Then I saw that there is more gain in wisdom than in folly, as there is more gain in light than in darkness.” (Ecclesiastes 2:13 ESV)
Acknowledging some things exist naturally in opposition to each other, Paul wrote. . .
“(14) Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14 ESV)
As this is the case relative to the physical world, it is also true spiritually! Though we are urged to be kind and keep an open mind — since we must humbly acknowledge in the imperfection of our own wisdom, we can be wrong at times — we must also remember “There is a difference between an open mind and a hole in the head.” (source: calendar quote) Therefore, let us continue looking to the light of God’s word to dispel the darkness of human understanding and receive the enlightenment He can bring. (Psalm 19:8; Ephesians 1:16-18) When it comes to the extremes, let us be extremely careful to not allow our own feelings to sway us, but continue seeking God’s guidance and allowing our life to be guided by the truth of His Word. Understanding we don’t need to rely on our own understanding, may we remain extremely grateful God has preserved His Word for us to come to know how we ought to live our life as we place our eternal trust in His plan of redemption in Christ!
Have a great day GRATEFUL FOR GOD’S GUIDANCE!
Carl
