Does the fish know he’s wet? The question indicates that we are not always aware of the context in which we exist. That is why a biblical world and life view is so important to learn and reinforce on a daily basis. Without immersion in the Scriptures, we are vulnerable to surrounding influences, often without even being aware of such.
An example:
A radio station was playing in the background and a “public service announcement” came on scripted as follows:
“Are you anxious, depressed, and dealing with unwanted emotions? This is perfectly normal, and we can help.”
What follows is a telephone number and website address directing the listener to people who will help make this all better. Did I check to see if these lead to pharmaceutical solutions? No, but I am reasonably sure that will be the eventual destination after psychiatric help is given. I submit, that making anxiety and depression normal, eliminates the abnormality of sin.
In the fourth chapter of Philippians, St. Paul tells us to be anxious for nothing, but by prayer and supplication to make our requests known to God. Jesus, in the eleventh chapter of Matthew, instructed us to take His yoke upon us, in that He will bolster us up and carry our burdens.
These are not the solutions being offered by the world. Moreover, even in Christian circles we hear of those “suffering” from depression rather than those abandoning God’s law-word and seeking sympathy and pity from those around them.
The greatest lie we have bought in to is ignoring Jesus telling us what should be ourmost important emphasis – the Kingdom of God and His righteousness/justice. If we are focused on the Lord’s concerns, we may find little time for self-pity or a victimhood mentality. Every soldier faces the realities of injury, illness, or emotional distress. However, if he abandons the mission and just focuses on what is going on with him, he pretty much misses the promised benefits of “all these things will be added unto you” (food, clothing, shelter of Matthew 6). The war we are in is real, and raging. Don’t help the enemy sideline you or those you care about.
If you want to avoid being sucked into deceptions and false ideas, then stay in God’s Word and whenever you hear the enemy-driven lies which surround us, respond knowledgably with “Thus sayeth the Lord.” What’s more, you will be a true help to those who are being deceived and headed for more hurt than help.
Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them (Eph. 5:11).
The Kingdom-Driven Family 