November 26

Choosing the Light (Day 2)

Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.  ––2 Timothy 2:14-15

Our default condition is cynicism.

Unless you live on a secluded island or in the Artic Circle with no internet, it’s easy to see why we can be so negative. Wars and rumors of wars. Killer viruses. Crazy political divisions. Corrupt leaders.

Negativity—and its cousin cynicism—is like being caught outside in a rainstorm: you will be drenched in it unless you have protective gear.

Cynicism is not the same as skepticism. As we discussed in a previous reading, skepticism can be a valuable tool as we “test the spirits” of this age to discern right from wrong, reality from deception. Cynicism is defined as:

1 : the belief that people are only interested in themselves and are not sincere 

2 : the fact of using someone’s feelings or emotions to your own advantage

For God’s man, it’s critical to engage in healthy skepticism while fighting against cynicism. For a submitted follower of Christ …

• Skepticism questions thoughtfully; cynicism assumes thoughtlessly
• Skepticism verifies information to confirm the facts; cynicism speculates about the facts
• Skepticism gives the benefit of the doubt; cynicism doubts without benefit
• Skepticism engages the opinions of all sides; cynicism rejects the opinions of those not in its tribe
• Skepticism examines the truth of God’s Word and judges it to be real; cynicism bends the Word to fit its position
• Skepticism tests the spirits of the enemy; cynicism succumbs to the spirits of the enemy

Don’t let cynicism gain a foothold in your life. It’s toxic, demonic, and absolutely no good to anyone. Healthy, godly skepticism, on the other hand, allows us to confront in love; it commands us to question various opinions and doctrines. When used well, skepticism sharpens our faith, and allows us as brothers to sharpen iron against iron.

Father, help me apply healthy skepticism to the decisions and opinions I confront each day, and may I grow in discernment through Your Holy Spirit.

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https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/cynicism