A few weeks ago my sister-in-law was excited to watch a live concert of one of her favorite singers. Not too long after that, when asked about the experience, instead of satisfaction she expressed some disappointment. She still acknowledged the talent of the artist, but the singer was no longer a favorite. As it turns out, he had made some very inappropriate statements during the concert that violated my sister-in-law’s moral-ethical sensitivities. And even when the singer ended the concert with the words, “God bless you,” it had a hollow ring to it.
Then, just recently, I came across a written communication. It was supposed to convey words of encouragement. It even attempted some humor. However, very inappropriate words found their way into the note. As far as I was concerned, the attempt at humor was a failure. And instead of encouragement, it succeeded in bringing out discomfort. And, once again, the closing words of “God bless you” only heightened the dismay.
Both instances are only two of many examples of a total disconnect between supposed spirituality and actual conduct. That is, there exists a discrepancy or lack of connection between one’s confession of faith and one’s mode of living—feeling, speaking, behaving. And what makes this disconnect pathetic and quite disconcerting is that often the party involved is clueless about it. It is not just a matter of discrepancy between two actions, but also between thought (or the lack of it) and action. We become a confused mixture of conflicting ideas.
Perhaps this malady of total disconnect is often a result of our failure to sort out and filter the diverse concepts and ideas that could influence our moral sensibilities. Until we are diligent enough to set up a standard by which to assess everything, we will operate only according to what “feels” good or convenient.
But that’s not want God intends for his people. True Christianity is not a mindless faith that results in a total disconnect with life. We are called to a “renewed mind” that is able to test and discern what is the will of God—“what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12.2). And so it’s worthwhile to “try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord” (Ephesians 5.10 ESV), and to “examine all things; hold fast to what is good. Stay away from every form of evil (1 Thessalonians 5.21–22 NET).
—Keith Y. Jainga