Faith

---

THIS I AFFIRM


Since Christians are commonly faulted for their criticism of prevailing practices, this tends to obscure their convictions. It is with this in mind that the following is set forth for reflection, not only for the critics but those who profess a Christian faith.
(1) I affirm religious freedom. It seems to me that this is implied by the creation narrative, where Adam and Eve are enjoined not to eat of the forbidden fruit, rather than prohibited from doing so. Which brings to mind the saying, “The more some things change, the more other things remain constant.” This being of the latter sort.
Conversely, it seems that religious freedom is increasingly coming under attack in the effort to promote some social agenda. This does not seem to be an acceptable trade-off in most instances.
(2) I advocate the cultivation of personal responsibility. We ought not expect others to do for us what we are unwilling to do for ourselves. This extends to expecting God to assume our responsibilities, in addition to his own.
I was encouraged in this regard as a youth. It was not my parents’ intent that I should continue to depend on them, but assume responsibility for myself. Then to assist others who are for no fault of their own in need.
(3) I strive to observe civil discourse. If for no other reason, recalling Jesus’ admonition: “first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye” (Matt. 7:5). This allows for constructive dialogue, which tolerates differences of opinion.
“Being civil means being constantly aware of others and weaving restraint, respect, and consideration into the very fabric of this awareness. Civility is a form of goodness; it is gracious goodness” (P. M. Forni, Choosing Civility, p. 9). It consists not only of an attitude, but action consistent with that attitude.
(4) I heartily engage in hard love. As illustrated by C. S. Lewis’ observation that it is because God loves us that he strives to make us lovable. Ideally, this is what is involved when Christians take issue with some objectionable practice, although it is likely not always to be the case.
Hard love is also costly. In this regard, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).
(5) I applaud genuine humility. This does not imply self-depreciation, but less concern with self. As for the former, it qualifies as a negative expression of pride. As for the latter, it implies due consideration of God and others.
We are thus encouraged to confess our sins, and strive to live a righteous life. While in keeping with the realization, “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked. But his delight is in the law of the Lord” (Psa. 1:1-2).
(6) I am disposed to pursue greater understanding. Not simply knowledge per se, but its wise exercise. As I am reminded on occasion, “The more we know, the more we realize we do not know.”
While it is proper to exercise faith on the basis of what seems to be compelling evidence. Everyone believes something, but some beliefs seem less credible.
(7) I think we should consider the impact of our decisions on future generations. As sometimes expressed, “Leave the world a better place than you found it.”
Along with due consideration that God “punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate (him), but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love (him) and keep (his) commandments” (Exod. 20:5-6). Thus indicative of his compassionate justice, as a precedent for others to emulate.

---

PLEASE ENCOURAGE AUTHOR BELOW LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE