I’m Sailing Right Behind
As children, we make assumptions that may or may not be true. Sometimes, we are taught things that are not true. These teachings and assumptions may not be intentioned wrongs, but wrongs they are. A great part of life is growing and learning better. The struggles of life teach us, we learn by intellectual development and we are guided by the hand of God. In the end, we become more rounded, capable and complete. That’s the goal, anyway.
In reflecting on my church experience and upbringing, I found that some of the things I once believed needed to be reconsidered. Now, I’m all for people being raised conservatively and adopting conservative positions, but we’re not always right just because we’re concerned. As a matter of fact, sometimes we do our own cause a disservice by shooting wide and often. So, I’ve thought about things a lot and understood that the only timeless truths are God’s- not mine.
I used to hear preachers say, “Principles are more important than people.” It depends on how you take that. Don’t presume on what I’m saying. I understand that the settled, absolute truths of God will stand for all eternity and bend for no one. But that idea became an excuse to many for torching their friends. Over and over, through the years, I have seen people sacrificed on altars of human building. Principles may be more important than people, but not if they’re misguided and misapplied.
Jesus died for people- not principles. The wisdom of God devised the plan to atone for sins and show grace simultaneously. And the grace of God follows us through life. “Underneath are the everlasting arms.” We don’t deserve God’s grace, but we receive it. I believe we need to learn from that. It’s when people deserve grace the least that they need it the most. Though we don’t have all the wisdom of God, we can learn by His example and do better by folks.
Be loyal to God and loyal to truth, but be loyal to people. Scripture tells us not to forsake friends in their times of need. It also encourages us to widen our circle to include all the suffering. Everywhere, people are hurting. Sadly, our society is self-concerned and short on time. Stress is at an all-time high, and loyalty is at an all-time low. When in difficulty, knowing that friends are standing with you goes a long way toward easing your mind.
When he expressed his night-time fears, a little boy was told by his mother not to be afraid because God was with him. He said, “I need a God with a face.” That’s what we are supposed to be. God with a face. A human touch guided by the Divine. Love God and love people. Everything else relies on these two principles, and they are part of one another. Don’t let your friends down and don’t let people down. You’ll need them someday.
Sterl
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