The Changing Season

Wanting What We Want

In his second letter to Timothy, Paul encouraged the young evangelist with these words:

I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.
2 Timothy 4:1, 2 (NASU)

He then followed by explaining a quintessential failing of humanity: our desire to hear what we want to hear.

Doing Nothing

A Famous Quote

A 18th Century political philosopher named Edmund Burke is attributed these words, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.” Although the specific quote is disputed by some, it seems in character with the overall attitude of Burke’s writings.

Peer Pressure

A Common Practice

With children and teenagers, it is common to talk about peer pressure. This is usually brought up in connection with making wise choices, such as in a class on alcohol and illegal drugs. The idea is to be able to influence of those who are around us, acknowledging the truth that young people are susceptible to the opinions of their peers and the world at large. However, this principle does not apply solely to young people. The problem of peer pressure is as old as the world.

The Ends and the Means

Varied Scenarios

In considering ethics, one is presented with varied scenarios dealing with what is moral or correct. Differing theories concerning a proper ethic have been explored throughout human history, ranging from utilitarianism to nihilism to universal moralism. The discussions by philosophers and thinkers can be an interesting study, but in the end any ethic which denies the overall authority and power of God is faulty.

The Worst Possible Advice

A Heartbreaking Story

The Book of Job tells a difficult story which involves great loss and hardship, and the choice to trust in God no matter what. The calamities that befall Job after Satan is allowed by God to harm him are truly devastating. Job first loses his livestock, which were both his livelihood and his fortune. He then loses all of his children, which were his true treasure and hope for the future. He finally loses much of his health, left in a miserable and painful state covered in boils.