Take a Stand

Another day dawns with the reality of the need to make a firm stand for what one believes.  This would normally be a good thing, but the potential is just as strong for it to be harmful.  To say that it’s good to stand for what one believes would make sense but how could it ever be wrong?  Simply, not understanding what defines them or considering the motive behind our acceptance of those convictions.

This Wayfarer has strong beliefs and often evaluates them to determine their perceived validity.  In examining beliefs it’s important to consider the reasoning behind them as well as the influences that brought us to such conclusions.  Many other factors are involved that causes acceptance or rejection of principles that come to our awareness.  Such factors as home environment during informative years; the influence of parents; what has been learned during years of formal education, to name a few examples.  As we mature other experiences in life may alter one’s viewpoint thus causing a change in philosophies we accept, which in turn affects what we believe.

The question then becomes how can we trust what we believe to be true?  Are the beliefs based on reason?  What are the known facts surrounding them?  Do we rely on empirical data, and if so how accurate is that data?  Are emotional experiences,  such as anger, rejection, or even ecstasy,  the motivating factor driving us to accept a particular idea?  What causes us to take one side or another of conflicting ideals, such as abortion vs. pro-life, or marriage between one woman, one man vs. same gender marriage?  When the choice has been made what makes one certain they have chosen the “correct” side of the issue?

The Wayfarer postulates that beliefs be based on sound reason with consideration given to life experiences, known facts surrounding issues as well as exercising faith.  What are the moral implications involved and the basis for those morals?  How much examination has been given to the motives, emotions and reasons for the choices we make?  As new information is learned are we willing to change our position in what we believe?  For that matter, are we even willing to have an open mind to genuinely hear opposing views with the desire to truly learn the “truth” rather than refuse to consider the alternative due to emotional entanglement or fear to admit we may be wrong in our convictions?  Do we have convictions based on personal preferences because of how we may “feel” or think, rather than accepting what may be truth that opposes those feelings?  Many complexities to consider that often we can only put our trust in what’s not tangible, such as God to bring us to truth.  Therein lays the “rub” – to be able to put trust in what’s unseen and intangible.  This is where true faith need be exercised and in time can be proven.  There will always be good vs. evil as well as two sides to any given matter.  Many will believe in abortion while many others take a stand against abortion and so it goes in many facets of society.

After all these considerations have been scrutinized and we have “landed” on solid footing of our beliefs then we can take a firm stand upon them.  Now the dilemma that faces most is the feeling the only ones who should make a stand are those who are in agreement with “me”.  Though this may be the way one feels each person should have the same opportunity to stand on their convictions.

Is there ever a time one should not make a stand?  This is not meant to imply to deny one’s convictions but rather to simply be quiet.  Only wisdom in any given situation can make that determination.  In general when we see our society taking a wrong turn that leads to chaos or even destruction we must take a stand against that course.  However, there are times when it is prudent to simply keep quiet for a season and then when the time is right, stand.  We should never be afraid to make a stand or allow intimidation to cower us.  When our convictions are strong and we understand them, then we will be strong enough to stand.

As the new day dawns, challenging us to make a stand, will we have the resolve, along with the understanding, to do so?  Have a great day standing.

Shalom