"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." Ephesians 6:12 ESV
What do we wrestle with today? Is it politics, policies, philosophy, or theology? Paul says our disagreements have nothing to do with our anatomy; biologically, we are made of the same stuff, but things not of God.
In the beginning, God created the earth and, among other things, placed in the Garden of Eden, Adam, and Eve. It was a simple symbiotic relationship until they messed it up. As a result of that original sin, man has struggled to create governments and institutions to fill that gap. Imperfect men, faced with temptations such as wealth and power, often make poor decisions. We create inadequate systems of justice and rule. As individuals, we buy into these ideologies, convinced one side is right over the other. It is these divisions Paul was warning the Ephesians about. An age-old problem.
As Christians, we know the only thing we can trust is God. Looking through the lens of scripture and listening to the Holy Spirit, we receive guidance and clarification. We also know that this world will remain imperfect until Christ, our King, comes again.
That person who angers us in what they are saying, we can still love and forgive. They are brothers and sisters, of the same flesh, made by the same creator. Where their opinions disagree with ours, start with an inventory of our ideas. Perhaps the problem is not the other person at all. Are our thoughts and notions consistent with Christ’s teaching and his example? Most of all, pray for harmony and peace. Pray for God's kingdom on earth.
Abba, Father, we come to you today admitting we bicker and quarrel with our brothers and sisters over inconsequential human-made ideals. We confess we are imperfect and often make poor decisions. Please help us as we seek your guidance in this imperfect world. Help us to love our neighbors and be respectful when opinions do not agree with ours. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
