IT’S A FINE LINE . . .

by Kathy on 2001-07-21 07:59:08

“Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity.”

Job 31:6

When my son Joshua was two years old, he enjoyed playing in the toilet. He
took great delight in dipping water out of the toilet and pouring it into
the sink or bathtub. Sometimes, he even put his toys in the toilet. Each
time I would find Joshua playing in the toilet, I would come unglued! How
disgusting! Just thinking of all the germs and grossness of the inside of a
toilet made my stomach turn, let alone my baby playing in it! I would tell
him, “Yuck, pooey, Joshua! Get out of that! That’s gross, Uuuugggh!”
During this same time, I was trying to potty train Joshua as well. I placed
his potty chair next to the “big” potty. I explained to Joshua how he was
to use the potty and not go in his diaper any more, but he wanted nothing to
do with the potty chair, big or little. I was so frustrated and couldn’t
understand his reluctance. Then I remembered what I had told him about
playing in the toilet. No wonder the little guy didn’t want to have
anything to do with it! What conflicting signals I was sending and didn’t
even realize it!

When Joshua was four years old, I sent him to preschool. Joshua has always
been an outgoing child, so I assumed he would just march right in and become
part of the class with no hesitation, however, I had been telling Joshua
since he could understand anything I said that he should beware of
strangers. I was so shocked when my outgoing four year old had a hard time
staying in preschool the first few days. Then I remember all the talks we
had about strangers. No wonder the little guy didn’t want to be left in a
room full of strangers! No mom, dad, or grandma close by, not even in
sight!

This thing called life is full of things which seem contrary. So many people
have different views on so many different things, most of the time with
valid points on either side.

I grew up around people who established what they believed were Biblically
based rules and regulations. For instance, some believed that television
was sin. Some believed bowling was sin. Some believed eating at a
restaurant which served liquor was a sin. As you can imagine, their social
life was not much to speak of. They found sin in everything around them.
Although it is true the Bible says we are “in” the world, but not “of” the
world, God has placed many things in this world for our enjoyment.
Television has been one of the greatest advances in communication, if not
the greatest, the world has ever known, however, it is true that some
programming is of a sinful nature and not to be viewed by the Christian.
This, however, does not make the whole television experience bad. Many shut
ins would have no church at all if it were not for the television. I would
never have experienced the wonderful antics of Lucille Ball or the craziness
of Barney Fife had it not been for television! Bowling is a great sport,
especially in the winter time. One of our church’s favorite outings, the
Adults vs. the Youth annual bowling party. And though it’s true that many
of the bowlers outside our group are obviously not Christians, those of us
who are can still go and enjoy the sport without participating in
ungodliness. Some of my favorite restaurants serve alcoholic beverages, but
I still enjoy the food, especially at Mexicali Border!

Whether we as strong Christians wish to accept it or not, God is trying to
teach us balance in all things. God expects us to exemplify integrity and
godliness – IN THIS WORLD! Obviously, we are in the world on our jobs, in
our schools (even the Christian ones), at WalMart, in the grocery store, at
the movies, or at family reunions, but we can still maintain Godly integrity
and enjoy those things which God has placed before us.

If you’re struggling with issues in your life and what’s right and what’s
wrong, listen to the Lord. You will hear Him if you are willing to hear
Him. He loves you and He wants what’s best for you. Let Him lead you to
balance, and if man criticizes you, that’s their problem. As long as you
and God have it straight, that’s all that matters!

May God bless you as you continue to seek His perfect will and ENJOY your
life’s journey!

Kathy