And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, Colossians 1:9
An old mentor taught me that you don’t really understand a subject until you compare it with its opposite. You need to know all its similarities and differences. When you do, then you will be able to identify its strengths and weaknesses. Only then will you have an understanding of its practical application.
It doesn’t matter what subject you are discussing. We could speak about love and hate. Or people and institutions. Males and females. Rich and poor people. Life of indulgence and sacrifice. How to lead and follow. When to submit and rebel. The list is endless on what two items you can compare. The purpose is simply to identify everything you can about the subject. Then look at its practical application within the confinements of the situation. This is taking knowledge to a level of understanding all its applications. Then you will be able to exercise your understanding into wise action on the matter.
This holds true in the fields of business, government, and education. This is true in the operations of the local faith community. This is also true in our personal relationships, including our with-God understanding.
Take for example the with-God or without-God life.
What are the similarities?
Your list may include something like this: both require a choice. Both are a worldview. Both determine who you are going to serve. Both establishes a moral basis for decision-making. Both reflect the core of one’s identity. You could list more. But these are just a beginning example.
What are the differences?
You could list these for starters. One places a higher authority of accountability on oneself and others. The without-God places supreme authority unto self or government or another person. One finds meaning for living from their eternal God and the other finds it in themselves. One finds an ultimate purpose for life with-God and the other finds life is a happen-chance. One places value on each life because they are made in God’s image. The other finds only utility value in a life – a rat is like a dog and a dog is like a person. There is no value difference between each.
By analyzing similarities and differences, you develop a better picture of each. You then can choose which way you want to live your life.
This is a modest example of an exercise to help one determine a more thorough understanding of a subject. Most of us live life under the one note music theme. We hear or think of one message and that becomes the basis of our knowledge. An educated person gains knowledge from many sources. Then integrates different scenarios for a better understanding of the matter. This allows you to better apply wisdom in the situation you find yourself in.
The same is true in spiritual matters as in physical items. Know your similarities and differences. They open the door for a greater experience with God and others.
Rooting For You in Christ!
Dr. Mike
Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler
“We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,” (Colossians 1:9)
Books By Dr. Mike:
- Power Up With Jesus Book Series- Aspirations for a Grace-Paced Life!
- The Adventurous Journey of Transformation in Christ
- Overflowing Prayers Rooted in Jesus Christ v1 & v2
- Dancing With God: A Life-Giving Worldview
- Great Business Emulates a Good God
- Stay Free…Avoid Worldly Traps
- Simply The Messenger
- Unequally Married
Encourage a Friend…Share Today’s Message!
Radical In Christ 