Yesterday, I wrote a little about expectations. In particular, what are our expectations of God? How about our other expectations in life?
A friend of mine has written a great novel. I was fortunate to be able to read an early copy. We met as an editorial team the other night. A common topic there was about reality and the potential audience.
What is realistic? Is a family that all get along realistic? If a teen respects and is respected by adults, is that realistic? How about the way people interact with other people and circumstances? What is realistic?
How do you demonstrate what can be, and still be realistic? How far can you go and be believable? At what point do people stop relating to the characters and story? There aren’t easy answers.
What can a person expect from a teen or young child? Perhaps a scenario will help explore the question. In some churches and other organizations, you are mostly expected to be a sometimes contributing spectator until 20. Good luck getting a leadership position before 30. And people wonder why young adults leave the church? That is a whole other article or three on its own, for another day. I do understand there is some wisdom that is gained with years.
It doesn’t take a whole lot of discernment to figure out spiritual maturity often has little relation to years. Believers of all ages get a full-sized Holy Spirit in them. Spiritual gifts are gifts. You don’t earn them. So, young Christian children get spiritual gifts also. Like us older ones, all they have to do is ask.
So let me ask you, would you rather have a middle-aged pastor gifted in other areas pray for your illness, or a young child with the gift of healing? With whose prayer is healing more realistic? God does the healing and can do it anytime through anyone. But it happens more often through those with the gift.
Like us adults, the kids I know do not see healings 100% of the time. But they see it many weeks. And, unlike most of us, they have not learned to doubt. They have high expectations from their prayers and see results. What do we expect from God? What do we expect from young people? Because I have seen young children and teens live at such a high level spiritually, my realistic expectations are quite high. For many people, their experience has been quite different. And correspondingly, their realistic expectations are lower.
The school year has just begun. In some ways, teachers have it easy. A fourth grade teacher can pretty much assume nearly all students start out being able to perform on at least a third grade level. So the teacher can adapt the teaching content and style appropriately with those realistic expectations.
For those of us writing for the general public, it is not so easy. Nearly all assumptions are faulty. Book and Internet readers come with a wide variety of ages, world views, experiences, and needs. Good luck trying to write for everybody! I know not all of my readers are Christian. Some are men. I think probably most are women, partly because of numerous female relatives. Some of my thoughts, written and unwritten, are geared more towards leaders. At other times, I try to avoid churchy talk and meet people where they are at.
And that may be the key: Where are they at? What is their experience? As a writer, we have no control over that. Perhaps what is “realistic” is whatever is not too far away from our experience. The story or message is a relatively small step away from what we have known. It is close enough that we can say “I could do that!” or “I could see that happening.”
For a person growing up in a violent home, reading about a peaceful household may seem a stretch of the imagination. For others, that is just normal growing up for them. Some have difficulty imagining trying a new thing, speaking to strangers, praying in public, trying an unfamiliar food, being able to forgive quickly, joining community theater, having a great marriage, hosting a foster child, singing karaoke, going to college, or even writing out loud in a blog. We all have things that seem to be quite a stretch for us.
So how does a person write or teach or mentor in this somewhat random scenario? There are probably dozens of books on it. And I am no expert. But I believe that ideally, you challenge all levels to the next step higher. Perhaps it is a higher level in something familiar. Or it may be a challenge to a new experience. Or the challenge may even be to cut out something from our lives resulting in greater focus or flexibility in other areas.
Multi-level communicating can be hard. And I think it might be quite difficult within a novel. But I have no experience with that kind of writing. A gifted novelist probably has much higher expectations.
What is realistic? What could be our reality, if we chose to pursue it?
How about our dreams? Do we still dare to dream? How are we uniquely made? What can we do best? Do we perceive some of those goals and dreams as unattainable? What if we took small steps in that direction? We could discover our destiny and create a new reality for our lives.
What do we want our reality to be? Are we willing to take steps to make it happen? You never know. We could enjoy it. Stranger things have happened.
Thursday, 9 September 2010
Wednesday, 8 September 2010
Stranger Things Have Happened
Stranger things have happened. A person with a blog may actually write once in a while. It is time to write and create a little once again.
What is strange? To some extent, a thing is strange if it is not what we expect. So what do we expect?
What do we really expect? That can be an important question in some situations. At my church, The House, a common saying is that Expectation = Invitation. What we expect from God is often an invitation for him to act in that way.
Are our expectations of God high or low? Is he a good god? Have our experience and disappointments become our theology? When we don’t get the “perfect” response from him, can we still say “God is good”? Do we honestly believe he can and will answer our prayers?
What do we expect? What will we expect?
What is strange? To some extent, a thing is strange if it is not what we expect. So what do we expect?What do we really expect? That can be an important question in some situations. At my church, The House, a common saying is that Expectation = Invitation. What we expect from God is often an invitation for him to act in that way.
Are our expectations of God high or low? Is he a good god? Have our experience and disappointments become our theology? When we don’t get the “perfect” response from him, can we still say “God is good”? Do we honestly believe he can and will answer our prayers?
What do we expect? What will we expect?
Sunday, 23 November 2008
Chasing Lions
Through a link on GoConnect.org, I revisited the book In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day by Mark Batterson. David Mays provides a great summary on one of his Book Notes pages.
The base biblical story is about a man who follows a lion into a pit on a snowy day and kills the lion. Apologies to my lion-loving sister. The story in Second Samuel 23 is part of a series of stories of men who faced their fears and took great risks, usually to accomplish things that would glorify God.
From that little story, the book expands the theme to all the ways God brings us to the right place at the right time to prepare us for what is ahead and move us towards our destiny.
"But here's the catch: The right place often seems like the wrong place, and the right time often seems like the wrong time." Those times are often very difficult and way out of our comfort zone.
Knowing that faith involves risk and uncertainty, we can have some measure of peace and confidence in the most trying of circumstances.
You may have had some challenging experiences. I have certainly had a few - many more severe than I ever would have imagined ten years ago. But I'm writing and you're reading. So we have survived to tell about it. And hopefully we have learned a thing or two along the way. And I have also lived to tell the story of how God has blessed me in ways I could not have imagined ten years ago.
Even when the way is foggy, and it often is in my experience, God calls us to move forward, taking baby steps if necessary. We don't always know what is ahead. But daily we have choices of what to do with "today". Are we willing to let God work in us and through us today? As we are willing, open, and obedient, greater opportunities await.
I pray God will give us all a vision of how we may impact the world and impact eternity. And I pray we will persevere when that stretching, growing, and testing tempts us to give up. As the Apostle Paul often prayed, God's strength and peace to you. He is able.
"Impossible odds set the stage for amazing miracles. That is how God reveals his glory--and how He blesses you in ways you never could have imagined." (22)
"Satan has two primary tactics when it comes to neutralizing you spiritually: discouragement and fear." (51)
"Lion chasers are more afraid of lifelong regrets than temporary uncertainty." "Embracing uncertainty is one dimension of faith." (81)
"The more you're willing to risk, the more God can use you. And if you're willing to risk everything, then there is nothing God can't do in you and through you." (102)
It is often the fear of foolishness that holds us back. "Faith is the willingness to look foolish." "Noah looked foolish building an ark in the desert." (149) "The greatest breakthroughs, miracles, and turning points in Scripture can be traced back to someone who was willing to look foolish." (150)
"Conforming to Christ results in nonconformity." (151)
Seven skills to be a lion chaser: "You have to start by trying to comprehend the infiniteness of God so that you can believe He can help you to defy the odds. You have to face your fears, or they'll hold you back forever. You have to learn to reframe your problems through Scripture reading, prayer, and worship. Then you'll shift your perspective so that your problem becomes less significant and God's greatness becomes more evident. And remember, you must take risks. That is the essence of faith. Then you're ready to seize the opportunity. But you have to be able to see it to seize it. That means getting yourself in tune with the Holy Spirit. You have to listen to His still, small voice prompting you and believe that He is setting you up for success. And finally, you have to accept that you're going to look foolish sometimes." "These skills are a package deal." "What lion is God calling you to chase?" (168-69)
Please visit the David Mays site for more quotes or go buy the book.
Bridge photo is copyright© 2006 Ronald G. Hedberg. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use prohibited.
The base biblical story is about a man who follows a lion into a pit on a snowy day and kills the lion. Apologies to my lion-loving sister. The story in Second Samuel 23 is part of a series of stories of men who faced their fears and took great risks, usually to accomplish things that would glorify God.
From that little story, the book expands the theme to all the ways God brings us to the right place at the right time to prepare us for what is ahead and move us towards our destiny.
"But here's the catch: The right place often seems like the wrong place, and the right time often seems like the wrong time." Those times are often very difficult and way out of our comfort zone.
Knowing that faith involves risk and uncertainty, we can have some measure of peace and confidence in the most trying of circumstances.You may have had some challenging experiences. I have certainly had a few - many more severe than I ever would have imagined ten years ago. But I'm writing and you're reading. So we have survived to tell about it. And hopefully we have learned a thing or two along the way. And I have also lived to tell the story of how God has blessed me in ways I could not have imagined ten years ago.
Even when the way is foggy, and it often is in my experience, God calls us to move forward, taking baby steps if necessary. We don't always know what is ahead. But daily we have choices of what to do with "today". Are we willing to let God work in us and through us today? As we are willing, open, and obedient, greater opportunities await.
I pray God will give us all a vision of how we may impact the world and impact eternity. And I pray we will persevere when that stretching, growing, and testing tempts us to give up. As the Apostle Paul often prayed, God's strength and peace to you. He is able.
Just a few quotes from the book:
"We're inspired by people who face their fears and chase their dreams. What we fail to realize is that they are no different from us." (16)"Impossible odds set the stage for amazing miracles. That is how God reveals his glory--and how He blesses you in ways you never could have imagined." (22)
"Satan has two primary tactics when it comes to neutralizing you spiritually: discouragement and fear." (51)
"Lion chasers are more afraid of lifelong regrets than temporary uncertainty." "Embracing uncertainty is one dimension of faith." (81)
"The more you're willing to risk, the more God can use you. And if you're willing to risk everything, then there is nothing God can't do in you and through you." (102)
It is often the fear of foolishness that holds us back. "Faith is the willingness to look foolish." "Noah looked foolish building an ark in the desert." (149) "The greatest breakthroughs, miracles, and turning points in Scripture can be traced back to someone who was willing to look foolish." (150)
"Conforming to Christ results in nonconformity." (151)
Seven skills to be a lion chaser: "You have to start by trying to comprehend the infiniteness of God so that you can believe He can help you to defy the odds. You have to face your fears, or they'll hold you back forever. You have to learn to reframe your problems through Scripture reading, prayer, and worship. Then you'll shift your perspective so that your problem becomes less significant and God's greatness becomes more evident. And remember, you must take risks. That is the essence of faith. Then you're ready to seize the opportunity. But you have to be able to see it to seize it. That means getting yourself in tune with the Holy Spirit. You have to listen to His still, small voice prompting you and believe that He is setting you up for success. And finally, you have to accept that you're going to look foolish sometimes." "These skills are a package deal." "What lion is God calling you to chase?" (168-69)
Please visit the David Mays site for more quotes or go buy the book.
Bridge photo is copyright© 2006 Ronald G. Hedberg. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use prohibited.
Sunday, 19 October 2008
Responding to Injustice
Some months ago, I wrote a little in my blog about a situation involving injustice related to a corporation. In that case, the main response by the people in the story was exposing the injustice to the media and others. Eventually that approach resulted in changed behavior by the company. But the motives and attitudes of all involved were often quite negative.
Part of the intent of that article was that it would lead into a short series of articles, or one long article, regarding injustice. Beyond any interest in the topic itself, I know that many people do not understand my response to a particular situation I have been in for many years. Each situation is unique. Mine goes far beyond any inconvenience or blow to my pride. This injustice has affected many people in negative ways and put lives at risk. Others want to see the injustice end too.
Most people, well truthfully, probably everybody has recommended I react with whatever (legal) means necessary to stop that injustice. But I have chosen a different path this time, which I will explain later.
All four of the options I will present may seem appropriate at different times. And there is biblical basis for at least three of them. But for these past years I have taken the less-traveled route.
Because this topic is somewhat sensitive, it has seemed there is never really a “good” time to write about it. Most of this has been in my head for several years. I jotted down a few notes nearly a year ago. I have added a few paragraphs here and there in recent weeks. Perhaps what I write will help a few people. And, selfishly, it will probably be good for me to finally write it out. So here goes…
What follows is part of my painful journey to mercy.
It is wise to examine a situation. Perceived injustice may not truly be wrong-doing once we have a full understanding of the situation and perspectives. For the purposes of this article, I will be discussing what most would consider true injustices.
Will it matter if we spend a few moments considering the injustice around us? Time will tell. It is true that some injustice will prevail until Jesus comes back. In the meantime, we can each make an effort to stop injustice where we are able. For the Christian, there is a responsibility to invite God’s kingdom (kingship) to come and his will be done. We should pursue God ruling on earth as it is in heaven. And in heaven, there is pure justice.
Injustice exists today. One way or another, we all respond.
Some people will use exposure in a mean-spirited way. But exposure can also be the most loving thing a person can do. The motives of the light-bearer may actually be honorable. Shedding light on a situation can truly be a good thing – for everybody involved.
A few guidelines you may wish to consider regarding exposure:
For many people, their first reaction to the thought of actions exposed is negative. Quite often, but not always, our reactions to exposure reflect our view of God – especially when he reveals truth about us. And, to some extent, our reaction is related to our view of authority figures in our life. Are we in a habit of hiding, or perhaps a perspective of shame?
Much of our reaction to exposure is assuming the motives of the person or people exposing us. Do they want to hurt us? Do they want us to feel bad about ourselves? Or perhaps they have our best interests in mind, and what is good for the people around us as well. Exposure can be the most loving thing a person can do for us. What do we believe about their character?
Part of exposure is understanding the true situation. Let’s look at injustice in general.
Like the majority of sins, most injustice is related to pride and self-centeredness. One person or group prioritizes their wishes far above the well-being of others. The focus is on taking and taking advantage for their own gain at the expense of others.
Intentionally or not, many continue the self-centered path they have created for themselves. Each action reinforces a habit. And the habit more and more becomes a core value of who they are.
Unjust actions happen. But we cannot always assume the thoughts and motives behind those actions. Some people wish to hurt others, for a variety of reasons that are often related to past experiences. Some act out of fear or defensiveness. Some work against anything good God wants to do in the world and for any way they can derail God’s destiny and purpose for people. Some are ignorant of the impact of their actions. Some are proud of their actions and make sure the public records declare forever how they demanded to be unjust with others. They apparently want injustice to be part of their legacy. And many, many are fooled.
Satan is often described as a deceiver, the Father of Lies, being slick, crafty, and similar terms. Even smart people get fooled. One example is that Satan will fool us into thinking unjust selfish actions will bring us happiness, peace, and satisfaction. But they don’t. A lust for power or control is never satisfied. It always wants more. Greed seeks to take and accumulate. But most American suburban homes testify that the more we get, the more we want. Greed just feeds more greed. And these self-centered attitudes will never bring about any sense of peace or long-term satisfaction. Going that path is buying into a lie. It brings honor to no one.
Additionally, most of these unjust actions have immediate and long-term consequences. God has said that no greedy person will ever see the kingdom of God. Jesus said we cannot serve both God and mammon (material things and money). The self-centered approaches of injustice are incompatible with God’s ways of love and investing in things that will effect eternity. A prideful self-centered approach to life and relationships puts a person at high risk of losing a chance at some of the greatest things in life – for now and for eternity. Because of the negative consequences of acting unjustly, a person may even choose to do right for selfish reasons. It is truly in their best interest to start doing what is fair and just and right.
Satan comes to steal, kill and destroy. Those are the actions of many injustices as well. The stealing is not always monetary or possessions. The killing is not always a person’s physical life. But injustice can attempt to steal dignity, kill relationships, destroy hope, and have other damaging results. Satan is pleased when his values have been demonstrated through an injustice.
I have seen highly-respected people dishonor themselves by choosing unjust actions. And in the process, they have tossed aside their good reputation. They have indirectly "corrected" people who once associated them with positive moral values like fairness, faithfulness and kindness.
If a person is opposed to having the actions exposed, it often means they feel they have something to hide, something for which they are not entirely proud. But, if it is wrong, why do they keep doing it? There is a reason forgiveness is so intertwined with repentance in the Christian faith. If we are unwilling to take steps to stop a behavior, we must feel it is okay. And if it is okay, there is no need for forgiveness. God offers forgiveness when we honestly say an action is wrong and take even baby steps away from that action towards new behavior. If a person continues injustice, they most-likely feel the action is “okay”. And, in that case they should have no qualms about having their action exposed.
Sometimes just sharing the reality of a situation will prompt a person or group to reconsider their hurtful actions. If they have bought into some of the lies, they may be open to some loving encouragement to find a route out of those old patterns of behavior.
But, one of the downsides of this approach of exposure is that it can imply the person or group cannot or will not consider a change in behavior on their own. Someone has to inform them and perhaps persuade them to do what is right. Even if motives are 100% pure, on the receiving end of this exposure it could be perceived as a dishonoring insult. On the other hand, if they are truly willing to change behavior without prompting, let them prove it in their actions.
Despite the risks, in many cases exposure and shedding light on an unjust situation can result in changed behavior and an end to the injustice.
As much as people may hate war and personal confrontations, the simple truth is that some people, organizations and countries will not change behavior unless they are forced to do so, or at least they are strongly persuaded to change. Not everybody will change behavior through a conversation. Even strong words may be ineffective.
Most parents understand this. They have had to use force to stop a toddler from damaging behavior like running into traffic or hurting someone else. The most loving action by the parent is to use (nearly) any means necessary to rein in the hurtful behavior. Words can be ineffective at times. Action is best for the child and other people as well.
If we are honest, most of us are also grateful the government uses force to “bind up” and restrict negative behavior through jails, prisons and military action. Through that limiting behavior, they provide freedom to the majority of people for positive behavior. Binding, the negative, encourages and “loosens” positive activities. The concept of binding and loosing is in the Bible as well regarding binding the power of Satan and his demons and the power of sin. And that helps free us to live the life God intends for us. There are numerous examples in Old Testament times of God restricting the behavior of a ruler or nation for the overall long-term best interests of the world. Sometimes binding, restricting and stopping of certain actions are necessary for the greater good.
How does a person use force to change behavior? Individually, in America we are largely limited to using the enforcement of law to bring justice. Like many others, I feel there are way too many frivolous and outrageous lawsuits. But there are times when the courts are our best option for bringing about justice.
But proceed with caution…
Consider before a lawsuit the chances of success. Judges and jurisdictions vary. Consider the costs and potential costs to carry this out. Monetary costs are just the beginning. Also consider the risks. Will a lawsuit bring honor or dishonor to you and others. Will it communicate life or communicate death? Will it bring light or darkness to the world? Who will be most pleased by bringing a lawsuit, God or Satan?
One of drawbacks of this forceful approach is that there can be implied dishonoring. Using force implies the person or group will not respond to talk. It implies they are so unwilling or unable to change behavior that they must be forced to do what is right. They are unwilling to do what is right on their own. That is not always entirely truthful.
In the end, getting our way through force or confrontation may stop the injustice. But it may be at the expense of the honor of those who have been committing the unjust acts.
Similar to the other options, there is some dishonor with this approach also. Our resignation usually comes because we have given up hope they will ever change their behavior. We have given up hope that any action on our part could nudge them in the right direction. Whether due to stubbornness, ignorance, weakness, or some other reason, we conclude they will not change any time soon.
In addition, there is some dishonor of ourselves as we give up hope. We may lose any sense our prayers or words or actions can influence the situation – and sadly, perhaps any situation we consider. Giving up hope isn’t a “good” choice. But it is still understandable that people choose that approach at times.
The reality is that showing mercy can be the most challenging response of any option. It is difficult, contrary to the ways of the world, and can be emotionally stressful. Rather than inaction, a more appropriate description may be aggressive mercy.
A biblical example is Jesus. Laying aside all of his options for a power play against those trying to crucify him, he willingly chose mercy for a greater long-term benefit for others.
There are times to fight. But there are also times to turn the other cheek. There are times to give to those who steal and take from you. It doesn’t make sense in the natural that we should do this. But responding with mercy can disrupt Satan’s control of a situation and our lives.
God enables Christians to forgive as they have been forgiven. He enables us to show mercy and grace because we have received mercy and grace. When we are weak and hesitate, God gives strength in our weaknesses to show love. We can attempt to honor people without condoning their actions.
Sometimes what we give people has little relation to what they deserve. Mercy is not getting what we deserve. Grace is getting good things we do not deserve. In both cases, they often say more about the giver than the recipient. God does it perfectly. Most of us are still learning. I have a long ways to go.
Some people need a strong rebuke to consider changing their ways. For others, loving kindness and mercy may draw them towards repentance and a new way of living.
When confronted with the unnatural mercy, people may finally see real-life examples. So this is what God’s unconditional love looks like. So this is what God’s mercy looks like. This is what a person can choose when God enables them to do things they probably could not do on their own.
We can give opportunities for them to keep or regain their honor (preferably where it will appear it was on their own). That has the potential for them to redeem their reputation.
If the unjust repent by changing their ways, along with restitution, then everybody wins and everybody receives a measure of honor. Contrary to the combative route where there are always winners and losers, with mercy resulting in changed behavior, we can truly have a win-win situation. And God and his values will be honored as well.
But what are the odds of success? The end results of this approach vary. Some will change their behavior immediately. Some may make changes years later. And some will not change in our lifetime. That is their choice. And they will face any short and long-term consequences for that choice. Those of us on the receiving end of injustice may have to wait a long time until justice prevails. And that may be costly.
But for those of us choosing to show mercy, there is a peace in choosing to love. There is a clear conscience when we try to bring light and love into a situation. There will be no regrets.
There are many options in responding to injustice in our world. I hope you will consider the sometimes painful path of mercy.
Part of the intent of that article was that it would lead into a short series of articles, or one long article, regarding injustice. Beyond any interest in the topic itself, I know that many people do not understand my response to a particular situation I have been in for many years. Each situation is unique. Mine goes far beyond any inconvenience or blow to my pride. This injustice has affected many people in negative ways and put lives at risk. Others want to see the injustice end too.
Most people, well truthfully, probably everybody has recommended I react with whatever (legal) means necessary to stop that injustice. But I have chosen a different path this time, which I will explain later.
All four of the options I will present may seem appropriate at different times. And there is biblical basis for at least three of them. But for these past years I have taken the less-traveled route.
Because this topic is somewhat sensitive, it has seemed there is never really a “good” time to write about it. Most of this has been in my head for several years. I jotted down a few notes nearly a year ago. I have added a few paragraphs here and there in recent weeks. Perhaps what I write will help a few people. And, selfishly, it will probably be good for me to finally write it out. So here goes…
What follows is part of my painful journey to mercy.
Injustice in Our World
Much of this world is good. But still, in a sinful, fallen world, injustice exists in many situations. Some are personal situations with friends, family and strangers. Some cases involve corporations and other organizations. And some injustice is related to countries and other political powers.It is wise to examine a situation. Perceived injustice may not truly be wrong-doing once we have a full understanding of the situation and perspectives. For the purposes of this article, I will be discussing what most would consider true injustices.
Will it matter if we spend a few moments considering the injustice around us? Time will tell. It is true that some injustice will prevail until Jesus comes back. In the meantime, we can each make an effort to stop injustice where we are able. For the Christian, there is a responsibility to invite God’s kingdom (kingship) to come and his will be done. We should pursue God ruling on earth as it is in heaven. And in heaven, there is pure justice.
Injustice exists today. One way or another, we all respond.
Option 1: Exposing the Truth
One way to respond to injustice is to focus on exposing the truth about a situation. Light is used to expose what is happening in darkness.Some people will use exposure in a mean-spirited way. But exposure can also be the most loving thing a person can do. The motives of the light-bearer may actually be honorable. Shedding light on a situation can truly be a good thing – for everybody involved.
A few guidelines you may wish to consider regarding exposure:
- Past wrongs for which there has been true repentance do not need to be brought up again. If there was genuine sorrow and changed behavior over the past action, then silence may be more appropriate. If you have forgiven them, regardless of whether they had any remorse, then your best action may be to just confirm that forgiveness and let it go, freeing yourself in the process.
- Related to the previous item, ongoing actions may be treated differently from one-time actions in the past. Ongoing actions usually indicate there has been no true repentance since the activity continues. The continuing actions declare their unwillingness to call it “wrong”.
- Facts are facts. We are not required to lie to cover up the truth of their actions.
- Consider the audience. The responses of people vary. Is exposure likely to lead to positive results?
For many people, their first reaction to the thought of actions exposed is negative. Quite often, but not always, our reactions to exposure reflect our view of God – especially when he reveals truth about us. And, to some extent, our reaction is related to our view of authority figures in our life. Are we in a habit of hiding, or perhaps a perspective of shame?
Much of our reaction to exposure is assuming the motives of the person or people exposing us. Do they want to hurt us? Do they want us to feel bad about ourselves? Or perhaps they have our best interests in mind, and what is good for the people around us as well. Exposure can be the most loving thing a person can do for us. What do we believe about their character?
Part of exposure is understanding the true situation. Let’s look at injustice in general.
Like the majority of sins, most injustice is related to pride and self-centeredness. One person or group prioritizes their wishes far above the well-being of others. The focus is on taking and taking advantage for their own gain at the expense of others.
Intentionally or not, many continue the self-centered path they have created for themselves. Each action reinforces a habit. And the habit more and more becomes a core value of who they are.
Unjust actions happen. But we cannot always assume the thoughts and motives behind those actions. Some people wish to hurt others, for a variety of reasons that are often related to past experiences. Some act out of fear or defensiveness. Some work against anything good God wants to do in the world and for any way they can derail God’s destiny and purpose for people. Some are ignorant of the impact of their actions. Some are proud of their actions and make sure the public records declare forever how they demanded to be unjust with others. They apparently want injustice to be part of their legacy. And many, many are fooled.
Satan is often described as a deceiver, the Father of Lies, being slick, crafty, and similar terms. Even smart people get fooled. One example is that Satan will fool us into thinking unjust selfish actions will bring us happiness, peace, and satisfaction. But they don’t. A lust for power or control is never satisfied. It always wants more. Greed seeks to take and accumulate. But most American suburban homes testify that the more we get, the more we want. Greed just feeds more greed. And these self-centered attitudes will never bring about any sense of peace or long-term satisfaction. Going that path is buying into a lie. It brings honor to no one.
Additionally, most of these unjust actions have immediate and long-term consequences. God has said that no greedy person will ever see the kingdom of God. Jesus said we cannot serve both God and mammon (material things and money). The self-centered approaches of injustice are incompatible with God’s ways of love and investing in things that will effect eternity. A prideful self-centered approach to life and relationships puts a person at high risk of losing a chance at some of the greatest things in life – for now and for eternity. Because of the negative consequences of acting unjustly, a person may even choose to do right for selfish reasons. It is truly in their best interest to start doing what is fair and just and right.
Satan comes to steal, kill and destroy. Those are the actions of many injustices as well. The stealing is not always monetary or possessions. The killing is not always a person’s physical life. But injustice can attempt to steal dignity, kill relationships, destroy hope, and have other damaging results. Satan is pleased when his values have been demonstrated through an injustice.
I have seen highly-respected people dishonor themselves by choosing unjust actions. And in the process, they have tossed aside their good reputation. They have indirectly "corrected" people who once associated them with positive moral values like fairness, faithfulness and kindness.
If a person is opposed to having the actions exposed, it often means they feel they have something to hide, something for which they are not entirely proud. But, if it is wrong, why do they keep doing it? There is a reason forgiveness is so intertwined with repentance in the Christian faith. If we are unwilling to take steps to stop a behavior, we must feel it is okay. And if it is okay, there is no need for forgiveness. God offers forgiveness when we honestly say an action is wrong and take even baby steps away from that action towards new behavior. If a person continues injustice, they most-likely feel the action is “okay”. And, in that case they should have no qualms about having their action exposed.
Sometimes just sharing the reality of a situation will prompt a person or group to reconsider their hurtful actions. If they have bought into some of the lies, they may be open to some loving encouragement to find a route out of those old patterns of behavior.
But, one of the downsides of this approach of exposure is that it can imply the person or group cannot or will not consider a change in behavior on their own. Someone has to inform them and perhaps persuade them to do what is right. Even if motives are 100% pure, on the receiving end of this exposure it could be perceived as a dishonoring insult. On the other hand, if they are truly willing to change behavior without prompting, let them prove it in their actions.
Despite the risks, in many cases exposure and shedding light on an unjust situation can result in changed behavior and an end to the injustice.
Option 2: Confrontation and Force
Another option is to attempt to change behavior by force. Use all means available to correct the action. Actions are used to limit the offending behavior and encourage beneficial behavior.As much as people may hate war and personal confrontations, the simple truth is that some people, organizations and countries will not change behavior unless they are forced to do so, or at least they are strongly persuaded to change. Not everybody will change behavior through a conversation. Even strong words may be ineffective.
Most parents understand this. They have had to use force to stop a toddler from damaging behavior like running into traffic or hurting someone else. The most loving action by the parent is to use (nearly) any means necessary to rein in the hurtful behavior. Words can be ineffective at times. Action is best for the child and other people as well.
If we are honest, most of us are also grateful the government uses force to “bind up” and restrict negative behavior through jails, prisons and military action. Through that limiting behavior, they provide freedom to the majority of people for positive behavior. Binding, the negative, encourages and “loosens” positive activities. The concept of binding and loosing is in the Bible as well regarding binding the power of Satan and his demons and the power of sin. And that helps free us to live the life God intends for us. There are numerous examples in Old Testament times of God restricting the behavior of a ruler or nation for the overall long-term best interests of the world. Sometimes binding, restricting and stopping of certain actions are necessary for the greater good.
How does a person use force to change behavior? Individually, in America we are largely limited to using the enforcement of law to bring justice. Like many others, I feel there are way too many frivolous and outrageous lawsuits. But there are times when the courts are our best option for bringing about justice.
But proceed with caution…
Consider before a lawsuit the chances of success. Judges and jurisdictions vary. Consider the costs and potential costs to carry this out. Monetary costs are just the beginning. Also consider the risks. Will a lawsuit bring honor or dishonor to you and others. Will it communicate life or communicate death? Will it bring light or darkness to the world? Who will be most pleased by bringing a lawsuit, God or Satan?
One of drawbacks of this forceful approach is that there can be implied dishonoring. Using force implies the person or group will not respond to talk. It implies they are so unwilling or unable to change behavior that they must be forced to do what is right. They are unwilling to do what is right on their own. That is not always entirely truthful.
In the end, getting our way through force or confrontation may stop the injustice. But it may be at the expense of the honor of those who have been committing the unjust acts.
Option 3: Giving Up with Silence and Apathy
I hesitate to even write about this option for responding to injustice. But many choose this route. Because of past experiences, fears, insecurities, and other reasons, it is easy to give up hope that any action will have an effect on stopping injustice. So a person can resign to surrender, passivity, hopelessness, and eventually apathy. They will learn to stop caring and stop hoping anything can change in the situation. I cannot recommend this approach. And I am not aware of any positive biblical example to support this. But, still, it is understandable that people will choose silence as their response to injustice.Similar to the other options, there is some dishonor with this approach also. Our resignation usually comes because we have given up hope they will ever change their behavior. We have given up hope that any action on our part could nudge them in the right direction. Whether due to stubbornness, ignorance, weakness, or some other reason, we conclude they will not change any time soon.
In addition, there is some dishonor of ourselves as we give up hope. We may lose any sense our prayers or words or actions can influence the situation – and sadly, perhaps any situation we consider. Giving up hope isn’t a “good” choice. But it is still understandable that people choose that approach at times.
Option 4: Intentional Mercy
From the outside, showing mercy can look an awful lot like giving up. It may appear there is a lack of action. And I can understand if people are perplexed by this path some of us have taken.The reality is that showing mercy can be the most challenging response of any option. It is difficult, contrary to the ways of the world, and can be emotionally stressful. Rather than inaction, a more appropriate description may be aggressive mercy.
A biblical example is Jesus. Laying aside all of his options for a power play against those trying to crucify him, he willingly chose mercy for a greater long-term benefit for others.
There are times to fight. But there are also times to turn the other cheek. There are times to give to those who steal and take from you. It doesn’t make sense in the natural that we should do this. But responding with mercy can disrupt Satan’s control of a situation and our lives.
God enables Christians to forgive as they have been forgiven. He enables us to show mercy and grace because we have received mercy and grace. When we are weak and hesitate, God gives strength in our weaknesses to show love. We can attempt to honor people without condoning their actions.
Sometimes what we give people has little relation to what they deserve. Mercy is not getting what we deserve. Grace is getting good things we do not deserve. In both cases, they often say more about the giver than the recipient. God does it perfectly. Most of us are still learning. I have a long ways to go.
Some people need a strong rebuke to consider changing their ways. For others, loving kindness and mercy may draw them towards repentance and a new way of living.
When confronted with the unnatural mercy, people may finally see real-life examples. So this is what God’s unconditional love looks like. So this is what God’s mercy looks like. This is what a person can choose when God enables them to do things they probably could not do on their own.
We can give opportunities for them to keep or regain their honor (preferably where it will appear it was on their own). That has the potential for them to redeem their reputation.
If the unjust repent by changing their ways, along with restitution, then everybody wins and everybody receives a measure of honor. Contrary to the combative route where there are always winners and losers, with mercy resulting in changed behavior, we can truly have a win-win situation. And God and his values will be honored as well.
But what are the odds of success? The end results of this approach vary. Some will change their behavior immediately. Some may make changes years later. And some will not change in our lifetime. That is their choice. And they will face any short and long-term consequences for that choice. Those of us on the receiving end of injustice may have to wait a long time until justice prevails. And that may be costly.
But for those of us choosing to show mercy, there is a peace in choosing to love. There is a clear conscience when we try to bring light and love into a situation. There will be no regrets.
There are many options in responding to injustice in our world. I hope you will consider the sometimes painful path of mercy.
Friday, 10 October 2008
Prophecy Regarding Shake-Up of American Finances in September 2008
Most prophetic words in the Christian church are regarding what is and was. But occasionally there is insight into what is coming in the future. The news headlines of late September and October regarding financial turmoil make this prophetic word quite interesting.
Context: In July of 2008, the U.S. financial industry appeared to be stable and healthy. Some have regarded Minnesota as a "threshing floor" state spiritually.
Prophetic Word from Chuck Pierce
Regarding Shaking of America in September 2008
Delivered July 18 at Redeeming Love Church in Maplewood, Minnesota
Prophetic word (from the perspective of God):
"For I would say to you, beginning September 17th, through the 26th, be prepared, for I will begin to jar and rearrange what needs to be rearranged. I say I come to this threshing floor state to announce that I will begin at harvest time to shake this nation again.
I say to you, this is my time and my doing and between now and then, I will start jarring the false altars that have been built up - and the altars that have contended against the power and blessing of my people.
I say to you, I have a people now that are crying day and night for my presence. And I say to you, the presence war is on. And the threshing floor must be prepared in this nation for the presence war. For I say to you, I will win this war."
-------------
Earlier in the evening, there were messages about short-term and long-term changes coming, not just in politics with the Republican National Convention in Saint Paul, but big changes and shifting coming in economic areas. The majority of the evening was about topics generally regarded as more spiritual.
Context: In July of 2008, the U.S. financial industry appeared to be stable and healthy. Some have regarded Minnesota as a "threshing floor" state spiritually.
Prophetic Word from Chuck Pierce
Regarding Shaking of America in September 2008
Delivered July 18 at Redeeming Love Church in Maplewood, Minnesota
Prophetic word (from the perspective of God):
"For I would say to you, beginning September 17th, through the 26th, be prepared, for I will begin to jar and rearrange what needs to be rearranged. I say I come to this threshing floor state to announce that I will begin at harvest time to shake this nation again.
I say to you, this is my time and my doing and between now and then, I will start jarring the false altars that have been built up - and the altars that have contended against the power and blessing of my people.
I say to you, I have a people now that are crying day and night for my presence. And I say to you, the presence war is on. And the threshing floor must be prepared in this nation for the presence war. For I say to you, I will win this war."
-------------
Earlier in the evening, there were messages about short-term and long-term changes coming, not just in politics with the Republican National Convention in Saint Paul, but big changes and shifting coming in economic areas. The majority of the evening was about topics generally regarded as more spiritual.
Tuesday, 5 August 2008
Gauges Gone Wild
A few days after blogging about where we put our trust, I got a real-life example. To me, it is fairly reasonable to expect your car to start each morning, especially in the summer. But sometimes things don't go quite as planned.
Thursday morning I got quite a surprise. The car doors unlocked okay. But from then on, it was strange. The gauges went wild when I turned the key or opened the door or did anything that might trigger a communication with the battery. The engine did not turn over even one rotation. The speedometer went from zero to 140 and back within a second. The tachometer and other gauges behaved wildly as well. It was very strange.
The car had been working just fine the day before. So this was quite a surprise. After a bit of Internet research, I read that one person claimed this was "normal" behavior for a dead battery for this car. It would have been nice to have some advanced warning with a slow cranking start or something like that. But no, not this time.
I cleaned the battery posts that were still pretty clean. Some neighbors were kind enough to give the battery a "jump". So then at least I could drive to an auto parts store. I let it charge for several minutes. At the auto parts store I turned it off and tried to restart the engine. The same wild behavior returned. Unfortunately, my battery was kind of pricey as auto makers try to make everything special. Fortunately, I was able to replace the battery myself (unlike simple tasks like replacing headlights that now require a dealer to get to the headlight bulb).
I have now waited a few days to see if the charging system is functional. So far the car still starts. So the battery replacement seems to have been the ticket. But that was an extra $100 I didn't plan to spend this month.
What can I learn? Worldly assumptions are not always trustworthy. Certainly we need to place some trust in everyday life. But a fallen world sometimes fails.
God was gracious enough to not let the battery fail until payday when I had a chance to buy a battery.
I am reminded of the Biblical passages e.g. Matthew 7:15-23 where Jesus talked about various miracles and powerful signs. In some cases, the actions were basically useless without the power of God and relationship with God. If we are disconnected from the power source, we can turn the key or remote or flip any other switch. And the results will have little fruit. Once we are connected to the Power Source, then our actions can truly make a difference. And we have a more accurate gauge of our impact.
Stay connected to the power source. Stay connected to the vine that brings life. A car can fulfill its purpose and destiny once it is rightly connected to a power source. And so can we.
Thursday morning I got quite a surprise. The car doors unlocked okay. But from then on, it was strange. The gauges went wild when I turned the key or opened the door or did anything that might trigger a communication with the battery. The engine did not turn over even one rotation. The speedometer went from zero to 140 and back within a second. The tachometer and other gauges behaved wildly as well. It was very strange.
The car had been working just fine the day before. So this was quite a surprise. After a bit of Internet research, I read that one person claimed this was "normal" behavior for a dead battery for this car. It would have been nice to have some advanced warning with a slow cranking start or something like that. But no, not this time.
I cleaned the battery posts that were still pretty clean. Some neighbors were kind enough to give the battery a "jump". So then at least I could drive to an auto parts store. I let it charge for several minutes. At the auto parts store I turned it off and tried to restart the engine. The same wild behavior returned. Unfortunately, my battery was kind of pricey as auto makers try to make everything special. Fortunately, I was able to replace the battery myself (unlike simple tasks like replacing headlights that now require a dealer to get to the headlight bulb).
I have now waited a few days to see if the charging system is functional. So far the car still starts. So the battery replacement seems to have been the ticket. But that was an extra $100 I didn't plan to spend this month.
What can I learn? Worldly assumptions are not always trustworthy. Certainly we need to place some trust in everyday life. But a fallen world sometimes fails.
God was gracious enough to not let the battery fail until payday when I had a chance to buy a battery.
I am reminded of the Biblical passages e.g. Matthew 7:15-23 where Jesus talked about various miracles and powerful signs. In some cases, the actions were basically useless without the power of God and relationship with God. If we are disconnected from the power source, we can turn the key or remote or flip any other switch. And the results will have little fruit. Once we are connected to the Power Source, then our actions can truly make a difference. And we have a more accurate gauge of our impact.
Stay connected to the power source. Stay connected to the vine that brings life. A car can fulfill its purpose and destiny once it is rightly connected to a power source. And so can we.
Sonic Boom
If you watch certain TV shows and channels, you have most likely seen the advertising for Sonic Drive-In restaurants. Until recently there was no opportunity to visit one in this area of Minnesota. I did visit one in Iowa a few years ago though.
Recently, a Sonic Drive-In opened in Saint Paul. At least three weeks later, we went there around five on a Saturday afternoon, shortly after a storm blew through. At least three weeks after the grand opening, there was still a long wait. Traffic control personnel were hired to manage the demand. If you wanted a drive-in spot, you had to go to a staging area down the block in another parking lot and wait in line for at least 20 minutes.
Sonic had found a demand. It may be mostly driven by curiosity at this point. The long-term success has not been determined yet. But, by most accounts, their entrance into the Twin Cities was a huge success.
They are just fast food. But Sonic offers something new. They offer a wide spectrum of drinks and desserts. Their meals have a few unique offerings as well.
So what can we learn from this? If you are hungry and near Saint Paul, you may wish to check them out. Their TV advertising built a pent-up demand. It wasn't until they opened a store that they understood the payoff. Our efforts, as well, can be very productive with fruit we have yet to see.
But mostly, from my perspective, Sonic offered some new options and possibilities. Churches and businesses take heed. If you offer something new and at least partially innovative, people may be willing to at least check it out. Obviously, people were not totally content with their food options in the Twin Cities. And, since about 75% do not attend church on a given Sunday, they aren't too excited about their Christian worship options either.
Fresh approaches and fresh attitudes have a chance of meeting people where they are at. There are signs there is pent-up demand for churches or Christian fellowships that have fresh and innovative ways of touching lives. Dare to be different. Dare to take some risks. You never know. You may touch off a Sonic boom that impacts dozens or hundreds of lives.
Recently, a Sonic Drive-In opened in Saint Paul. At least three weeks later, we went there around five on a Saturday afternoon, shortly after a storm blew through. At least three weeks after the grand opening, there was still a long wait. Traffic control personnel were hired to manage the demand. If you wanted a drive-in spot, you had to go to a staging area down the block in another parking lot and wait in line for at least 20 minutes.
Sonic had found a demand. It may be mostly driven by curiosity at this point. The long-term success has not been determined yet. But, by most accounts, their entrance into the Twin Cities was a huge success.
They are just fast food. But Sonic offers something new. They offer a wide spectrum of drinks and desserts. Their meals have a few unique offerings as well.
So what can we learn from this? If you are hungry and near Saint Paul, you may wish to check them out. Their TV advertising built a pent-up demand. It wasn't until they opened a store that they understood the payoff. Our efforts, as well, can be very productive with fruit we have yet to see.
But mostly, from my perspective, Sonic offered some new options and possibilities. Churches and businesses take heed. If you offer something new and at least partially innovative, people may be willing to at least check it out. Obviously, people were not totally content with their food options in the Twin Cities. And, since about 75% do not attend church on a given Sunday, they aren't too excited about their Christian worship options either.
Fresh approaches and fresh attitudes have a chance of meeting people where they are at. There are signs there is pent-up demand for churches or Christian fellowships that have fresh and innovative ways of touching lives. Dare to be different. Dare to take some risks. You never know. You may touch off a Sonic boom that impacts dozens or hundreds of lives.
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