I’ve been debating with myself all week on wether to write about this or not (yes, I debate with myself – sometimes the debates get r-e-e-a-l-l-y vocal!). There is so much to say on individuality and uniqueness I could go on for literally HOURS! But I’ll spare you the pain of a novel today instead of a post – even though this might turn into a “mini novel” regardless.
The topic I was debating with myself about had to do with lumping all people together in a certain group or identity. Confused? Yeah, so was I. I’ll start with what got me to thinking about this in the first place. On January 11th, 2021, I read something in an article by CTV News. It said the following: “PayPal Holdings Inc blocked Christian crowd funding site GiveSendGo after it helped raise funds for people who attended last week’s event in Washington when supporters of US President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol”. Now, I could speak VOLUMES on the January 6th, 2021 incident at the US Capitol, and I just might, but that’s not what this article is about.
As you read the above quote, it really doesn’t seem like there is anything wrong with it, right? It makes sense and agreeing with it comes naturally. But what got me to thinking (yes, I do that occasionally, too!) was how broad the spectrum is when someone references “Christians”. I’ve seen it multiple times in multiple articles – the reference to “Christians” or “Evangelicals”, seeming to lump all Christians together. When that happens – when someone references ALL Christians – people may get the wrong idea. Now, I know we are not suppose to be the judges of our fellow man, leaving the judgement to Jesus when He returns. I say that, because I’m about to sound rather “judgemental”.
When you see posts about “Christians”, it’s easy to think the reference is ALL Christians, EVERYWHERE. That, I think, is human nature. But I had this “righteous” anger about all of a sudden being lumped in with all Christians or Evangelicals everywhere as I read article after article. My views weren’t in line with Evangelicals supporting Donal Trump, nor were they in line with the lies about an election that was freely and safely held. (Again, I could write volumes on this subject, too.) I tell you, I was working myself into quite a frenzy being included in these groups. I couldn’t understand how the “average Joe” could believe in these ridiculous lies. Until something was brought to my attention. These lies may have been echoed by the leadership of the churches. And we are so programmed to believe what leaders tell us, aren’t we? THAT’S where we may all be the same. But isn’t that how we got into this mess in the first place? By leaders perpetrating lies. We are told that our leaders want only what is best for us – however, if you follow any kind of politics, you know that THAT may not happen very often. But back to the leaders that are carrying these lies to us. Yes, we are to listen to what people in leadership roles tell us, but we also have a God-given brain to think for ourselves. It IS permissible to question our leaders, and not follow them blindly.
I’m not saying I’m the only Christian who doesn’t believe these lies. I’m sure there are many, many others that don’t want to be lumped in with the Evangelicals not just espousing Trump, but also various other things. But when the perception is that being a Christian means YOU’RE in line with ALL Evangelicals, THAT bothers me. Please, I’m not saying that I’m oh-so-much-wiser or better than everyone else. I really don’t want to give that impression. God gives me “knocks on the head” quite often to get me to listen and follow the right path. I’m saying that all Christians are not the same. There are God-fearing, God-following people who try to live their lives according to the Word of God – the Bible. And, yes, the Bible is open to interpretation just like a lot of other things, and man is fallible. But, the Bible is written by men who have been inspired by the Holy Spirit and helped by Father above. And yes, I very truly do believe this. So! Where does that leave us? What are we suppose to do?
It is a conundrum, isn’t it. We’re hard-wired to listen to leaders and follow what they tell us. Also, I am NOT saying we are to disregard everything we are ever told – EVER! Although that’s what this is sounding like, isn’t it? No, we don’t disregard everything. But we have been given a conscience and we have intellect and instinct, and if that instinct kicks in, do some checking around. Make a few calls to senior members of the church. Do some research on the subject in question. Read what the Word of God says. And above all else – PRAY. When we are unsure of things; when something is troubling us; when we disagree with others – go to the Heavenly Father and try to really listen to what He is telling you. No, I do not believe God speaks with an audible voice, telling me where to go and what to believe. Study the Word. Sit in prayer. Find a peaceful place to meditate on what He might be saying. You might be surprised how He’ll answer you.
Some people might want to shrug this off. Many may call me “certifiable” – and maybe there are moments where I am “certifiable”. But what I really want coming across from all this is the following: when a label is attached to something, don’t just assume EVERYONE falls into the category – whatever category that might be. There are good people and bad people everywhere, and Christianity is no different. You may come across good Christians AND bad Christians, but you will notice the difference. You will be able to see where the difference lies. So, if there is someone you find you’ve “lumped” together with a majority, take another look. See what that person is really about. Give them a chance to show you who they are. And yes, you may not like what that person says, but at least you’ve given them the opportunity to show you that not everyone falls into the same category. You’ve given them a chance.
Stay safe and stay healthy
Until next time,
Inge
Life! And we're still here! Humble stumbles & bumbles! 