READ: JOB: 40
Then the Lord said to Job, “Do you still want to argue with the Almighty? You are God’s critic, but you do not have the answers.” (V. 1-2)
A critical analysis of how law enforcement first responders approached mass shootings was undertaken after the tragedy at Columbine High School. For years these events triggered a controlled response. Initial responders were trained to contain the scene; safely evacuate as many people as possible; and wait for SWAT to deal with the shooters(s). With the advent of better communications, training and firepower, first responders now proceed directly to the shooters location to immediately neutralize the threat. This change in tactics has saved countless lives.
For some strange reason society has increasingly applied this immediate neutralization policy when dealing with God. Facing a clash between historically grounded Biblical Values and those of the continually changing secular world, people tend to gravitate toward a position of neutrality. This is nothing more than a vain attempt to negate God’s influence in their decision-making process. Yes, prayer is good but not necessary in our schools and public venues–God is neutralized. Christmas is relegated to an economically driven season–God is neutralized. “In God We Trust” is written on our money but we are prone to obtaining all we can to ensure our security and standing-God is neutralized. Sunday was reserved for thankful worship and rest, now it’s just another shopping day or sporting events day–God is neutralized. These are just a few areas where we have actively neutralized God. We like to exclude God from the decisions that directly our lives and society.
Neutralizing God in any aspect of our lives produces direct and severe damage to the central core of our existence-our souls. In fact, you could say that it is downright life threating. When we feel as an individual, or society, that we have the answers to all of the major issues of life, we run the grave risk of spiritual alienation from the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. What’s even more amazing is that knowing the heavy consequences of critiquing God and neutralizing his influence, many people continue to pursue a path. They are willing to sacrifice their eternal salvation for a self-determined state of personal happiness. When will we, like Job, realize that God is the absolute source of everything? We lack the mental capacity to even slightly comprehend his plans for us, so it is imperative that we follow the lead of the one who loves and intends only good for us. (Jeremiah 29:11)
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Neutralization of evil and negative influences in our lives is sound lifesaving spiritual policy. Attempting to neutralize God leads to spiritual defeat, despair and enslavement to sin.
Dear Father God, help us keep your influence the prime as the motivating force in our lives.