So guys in Part 1 we touched on the fact that it’s natural to question your faith at some point and that asking questions is a good thing, but needs to be done with tact and caution. In part 2, we discussed the limitations of questioning everything, where we should draw the line and what we shouldn’t do when trying to piece everything together. Now let’s look at a few more pitfalls and how we deal with it.
Russian Roulette
We are all guilty of this. How many times have you Googled a scripture, maybe something for healing, protection, etc? We would never read any book out of context but we act like the Bible is a mishmash of scriptures that have no bearing on each other. We play Russian Roulette with scriptures and quote random verses completely out of context. To make matters worse, we then build a theology on them and live by them. You may get away with it but eventually one of the bullets will destroy you, physically, mentally or spiritually. But that’s how we roll…
And we’re gangster too. Haven’t you heard of a Christian Drive-by? Wait, seriously? You haven’t been the victim of one? Come on, guys! And you call yourself a Christian? 
It can happen when you least expect it. You’ll be minding your own business, just doing your thing, then all of a sudden a self-righteous homey shows up and fires a few random scriptures at you. “Doesn’t the Bible say…..” Bang bang bang. Even bystanders get hit in the rush. If you don’t know any better, you’ll end up getting gunned down by this Christian thuggery.
Listen, guys, I’m making a joke of a serious issue. Whenever you read the Bible, you must read it in context. We can’t cherry-pick scriptures that we like. At the very least, read the whole chapter, read the chapter that precedes it and the chapter after so you understand the context in which it was written. Sometimes you must dig deeper. You’ll be amazed, even understanding where Jesus was when he was teaching his disciples can have significant meaning. It puts the lesson into perspective.
Wolves in sheep’s clothing
The truth of the matter is that it is possible for a person to masquerade as a God-fearing human-being and twist scripture to make you believe whatever they would like you to believe. So the person can decide that they want you to believe something beforehand then convince you that what they are teaching is legit by referencing a verse taken totally out of context. And guess what, it’s not only limited to Christianity but all aspects of life. We take people’s word at face value. This is very dangerous.
The same thing happens with stats and studies. It can be taken out of context and used to deliberately mislead people. Feel free to read about Type A Behavior Pattern research so you can see for yourself, look up “Type A and Type B personality theory” on Wikipedia.
The point I’m making is that you must never take anything at face value. I’m not trying to turn you into a pessimist, I’m an optimist but we must be critical thinkers. When you start to question things and look for the truth, you’ll be amazed or better yet, horrified at the propaganda that’s rife in our society.
So now you’re probably like, okay Clint I get it. I must be cautious and search for the truth. I’ve observed others through good times and bad but I’m still not sure which Faith is correct.
If you really want to know your Creator on a deeper level then, ask Him. It’s not that complicated. God wants you to know Him personally. He wants a relationship with you. Why not play it safe and cover all the bases. Pray to each God, one by one. Start from A and work your way to Z. Tackle all of them, Aries, Thor, Zeus… You name it. The one that answers is the real one. If it’s true that all gods are actually one God then you should get an answer from every single one of them. Right? So pray, see who answers.
If you’re a little pressed for time and don’t want to pray to the thousand or so gods that were worshipped over human history. How about we try one prayer? Let’s give it a shot. Ideally, you should kneel as an act of submission to God that is omnipotent but if this can’t wait a moment longer then do it as you like but ensure that your heart is sincere.
Say this prayer.
God, I kneel before you and ask for your guidance.
I’ve followed the path that I’ve been shown, yet I feel empty.
What do I know? A mere mortal of flesh and bone, how can I comprehend what is beyond my understanding.
Despite my best efforts to figure out this life and follow the right path, I’ve hurt as many as I’ve helped. I’ve disappointed myself and those around me. Some days I’ve felt adrift and all alone.
I’ve walked this earth for so long. I’ve felt lost for as long as I can remember. All I desire is to know You. Please help me find You.
Amen.
Now, we’d all like some thunder and lightning immediately after this prayer. Maybe even a little… “Hello, is it me you’re looking for?”, but that’s not how it generally plays out because each person’s experience is different. It’s a customized experience specifically tailored for you. Maybe it’ll be a co-worker, maybe you’ll be flipping through channels and something will grab your heart. Maybe, it’ll be a post from some guy living in the Southern tip of Africa. However, if you’re lucky enough to have a thunder and lightning experience, please tell me. That’ll be awesome.
Just know this, if you sincerely seek God, He will help you find Him. This is the beginning of your journey.
My goal is to emulate Jesus and follow his example but if all else fails, I’ll be like David. A writer, a man after God’s own heart and someone not to be trifled with.
I believe in discussing life in a candid (unfiltered), no holds barred manner that stimulates personal growth.
I spend my spare time creating content that is informative, entertaining and that will help others in their personal development.
The Hustle is a project that focuses on career and purpose.
I also have a cooking vlog called Passing it on which is on Facebook and YouTube.
In matters of faith, I contribute to this ministry.
