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How to Avoid Getting Swept Up

9/8/2017

4 Comments

 
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     It’s easy to get swept up into causes these days. But before I do, I’m asking myself a tough, nonpartisan question - what’s the best way to focus my passions?
     An ancient Hebrew sage named Isaiah, who also lived in troubling times, exhorted his culture to be socially active in three ways: exercising justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God. Hmmm, do some who seek justice today need to grow in giving mercy? Should some who seek mercy instead render justice? And could both sides of an issue drop the swagger that they are totally “right” and humbly recognize there’s a moral code - if not a God - higher than their thoughts? 
     I’m also reminded of  Jesus of Nazareth, who warned how ridiculous it is to try to harvest good fruit from thorn bushes. Do I excuse “little flaws” in a politician, a party, or a platform because “it’s the best choice available?” Do I believe the end justifies the means, not realizing the meanness of the means may swallow up any good achieved?
     Am I compromising, doing something I know is wrong - like spouting sarcastic, arrogant, hateful words - to support what I believe is right? Am I willing to admit that some of my convictions might be wrong? Does my passion need to turn into compassion?
     Questions without simple answers, but before I get swept up in a cause, I’d better be aware that I can get swept away with it.

4 Comments
Margie Ghaffari
9/10/2017 04:08:37 pm

With so many disasters happening all at the same time (Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, earthquakes in Mexico, fires in the western US), it is easy to get swept away with all the pleas for help.Well-intended people are even arguing over which disaster aid group is best to donate to. This is where wisdom and discernment are needed. People need to pray, sincerely desiring to know what God would have them do. (Charity Navigator's web site could be helpful in determining whether or not a charity is trustworthy.) Thoughtful, intentional prayer with obedience to God will help someone to stand firm as the winds blow every which way.

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Trish Hermanson link
9/10/2017 04:18:57 pm

Good insight, Margie. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

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professional essay writer link
10/24/2019 12:31:30 am

Sometimes, we got to admit to ourselves that we also have our toxic traits. It is not just about other people around you, but you need to check on yourself because you might be the root cause of all the problems. It is a sign of maturity to admit that there is something wrong that must be changed. I know that it's as process, but of you are really after the growth of yourself and your relationship with other people, then you might want to start admitting it to yourself and asking others for forgiveness.

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Trish Hermanson link
10/24/2019 08:29:10 am

These are good thoughts you have that we are responsible for our own maturity. Thanks for sharing!

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