It’s a great feeling to know that you are right. To be so certain of your information that you walk confidently into any situation, ready to offer the world the correct solution.
As the years pass, I realize more and more that I don’t know it all, and there are people far more knowledgeable about many topics.
I can do some helpful things — getting gum out of a toddler’s hair or clothing, doing laundry, preparing meals that serve a family of ten, or learning and using new technology in a variety of educational settings, to name a few.
But a broken washing machine? Changing my car oil? Setting up a “smart” television? These are just a few of the skills I prefer to “outsource” to someone far wiser than me.
It’s okay not to know something, to “YouTube” an unusual chore or ask for help. But it’s NOT okay to stubbornly refuse to take direction, and it’s especially dangerous when this attitude is applied to your faith.
1 John 4:1 reminds believers to “test the spirits to see if they are from God,” warning that to believe everything we hear can be detrimental to our spiritual health and safety. The author finishes his letter with clear guidance that compares the Truth of God to the lies of this world, explaining that only faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God will reconcile us to our perfect, holy Creator (1 John 4:15; 5:1-4).
Society will always be filled with those claiming to know “the truth”. Matthew 7:13-29 cautions that an eternal relationship with God comes only when we “enter by the narrow gate” and subsequently obey the will of the heavenly Father. It is not enough to believe in God (James 2:19). Rather, our lives must reveal that connection to Him through daily obedience to His commands (John 14:15, 21, 23-24).
Are you certain that your faith is firmly placed in Jesus Christ for salvation? If not, today is the perfect time to make this important decision.
mpaxson99@yahoo.com
