Tuesday; May 8


I really enjoy many of the modern conveniences of today’s world – including the availability of information.  Earlier in my life, if I wanted to do some type of investigation it involved buying (and reading) a reference book or going to some type of library to research the information.  Today, with a few clicks on a keyboard a wealth of information is at our fingertips.  While this has its benefits, it also has its drawbacks.  Because there is so much information is out there it is easy to find the “type” of information that suits our needs, then all we have to do is forward what we find (often just copying and pasting someone else’s work).  We don’t have to “think”, all it takes is repeating another person’s thoughts.  While this can lead to plagiarism, I am also worried that it is having an impact on truth.  We don’t have to research, process, evaluate and reiterate things in our own words ... all we have to do is highlight, Ctrl+C, paste and send!  Is it any surprise that we are struggling with “What is truth?”.
Now, before we come down too hard on modern society, we should reflect upon how this has been a temptation for years – especially in religious thought.  Throughout the years, when we faced decisions about various biblical principles it was easy to quote the opinion of our favorite minister or recite our must trusted commentary.  When we do this, we miss out on the value of personal evaluation and – unless we happen upon the right answer – we run the risk of repeating misinformation. 
Early disciples did not possess many of our modern tools, but one thing they did have was spiritual leadership that compelled them to learn the truth.  Luke praised the Bereans, “Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11) while Paul challenged Timothy, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (II Timothy 2:15) 
Let’s be leaders in thought.  That should also help us be leaders in truth.
Think About It!

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