via Criticize
It’s always easy to criticize. Think about it. When I use myself as the measuring standard, there will always be other people, in my opinion, who fall way short. The result of this basic human tendency is criticism. The issue then becomes, “who gets to set the standard by which all human action or attitude should be measured?” Spiritually-minded people are at least open to the idea that they, themselves, are not the center of the universe. However, I know a lot of “spiritually-minded” people who are also very critical of others, which causes me a great deal of consternation. I don’t really understand their judgmental attitudes, if they consider Jesus’ words as the standard for living.
Matthew 7:1
Do not judge so that you will not be judged.
The world at large, and our nation in particular, has become attuned to the conflict stemming from unsolicited criticism. The layers of vehemence originating in tweets, posts, emails, and the media, are so enormous it’s no wonder our folks are divided. I’m trying hard to tune it all out. But if you watch any television at all, if you’re on FaceBook, Twitter, or the plethora of social media streams out there, it is virtually impossible not to be caught up in the undertow of nonsense. We’ve created a monster, it’s name is: Criticism.
Everyone and their dog seems to think it’s ok just to shove those words right down our throats, using every foul-mouthed verb in the book, and condemn us if we don’t agree with their ideologies. Nobody is exempt. If the revered position of President of the United States, can be the target of unfounded criticism from the uninformed masses, who can be exempt? It’s not really much different than in Jerusalem of the 1st century.
The group responsible for the spiritual leadership in Israel were called priests. The head guy was called the high priest. The majority of this group held the position that Jesus Christ was a false teacher, a heretic, dangerous, and should be killed. While Donald Trump is certainly not Jesus Christ, today he faces this same attitude (and danger) from people who have bought into the lies of the media, and the Democratic Party. Without doubt, those so highly critical often believe their own twisted logic so much, that they will do virtually anything in their power, to get their own way. Criticism is just the beginning.
When the lust for power becomes so strong that it moves from influencing our thoughts, to motivating our actions, somebodies death is almost a certainty. The Bible speaks clearly on this matter.
James 1:15
Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.
Those with the strongest voices of outrageous criticism today find no value in the Word of God. This is clear from their voices, actions, and goals. This reality makes the words of James even more tragic. Because in this sense, while they lust for power, these lust motives give birth to actions of sin (falling short of God’s standard), resulting in their own spiritual death because they have rejected God, His Son, and His Word.
Am I being too critical here? You can decide for yourself. That’s what this blog is all about. I seek to stimulate thinking, and urge you to seek God’s direction while sorting through the mess we have become in this country.
As I was saying... 