I consider myself an average fellow. I understand that there are many things I do not comprehend. Although I may not understand something, it does not mean I will not accept it. For example, the medical profession can do great and wonderful things for us. I may not understand a surgical procedure. Yet, I can accept a surgeon’s knowledge and expertise to perform an operation. Frankly, I do not understand the creation of the universe. Nevertheless, I accept it. I accept it because there is no other explanation that makes sense. How can an explosion per the “Big Bang” hypothesis produce order? We know that dead matter—rocks, dirt or a pit of slime—cannot produce all that lives on our earth. The whole universe runs like a “well-oiled machine,” and it is beyond complexity. Therefore, I believe, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” (Geneses 1:1).
I understand right from wrong because I accept the Word of God, the Bible, as the only true source for worldwide morality. These ethical precepts are extremely simple to understand. Man can understand these principles, and yet, he can refuse to accept and to obey them. There are many reasons why mankind refuses to recognize the rightness of God-given commandments. The point is, men can understand correctness and do not accept it because of rebellion. Countless people will not accept nor comply with God’s commandments in their entirety. “How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them!” (Psalm 139:17 ASV). A greater sadness is when men understand God’s plan of salvation and will not accept it. We need to ponder and ask ourselves, “Are we creed bound?” “Is the reception of the pure Word of God difficult or even unacceptable to us?” It would be wise for all of us to examine our faithfulness. “Knowing that the proving of your faith worketh patience” (James 1:3).
The following, “Let a Man Examine Himself,” is very worthwhile. I do not remember the source, and the author is unknown to me.
Let a Man Examine Himself
1 Corinthians 11:28
When we examine others, we justify self—but when we examine self, we are more disposed to justify others. Let a man:
- Examine his company (Psalm 1; Proverbs 13:20). Fowl of a feather flock together.
- Examine his habits (1 John 2:15).
- Examine his thoughts (Psalm 10:4). “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7).
- Examine his affections (Colossians 3:2). “To be carnally minded is death” (Romans 8:6).
- Examine his motives (1 Corinthians 10:31). Are they acting for self or for God? (Colossians 3:17).
