The Building Blocks of My Ethical Foundation by Robert Socha

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Philippians 4:8 KJV

This past week’s graphic images have seared anguish into my conscience, causing great disgust and distress. I am appalled that a doctrine of demons so vile it would attack innocent families in their homes is ever able to unleash its evil-intentioned vitriolic nature. It sickens me further that this cruel, malicious vindictiveness has spread throughout the West and deceived generations, especially those who endure our supposed institutions of higher education and, in many cases, not only defended but celebrated. I find my thoughts consumed by the hatred and animosity flaunted by the enemies of all things from Paul’s exhortation.

I cry out in anguish, penitently asking for my mind’s renewal, for the vile images to be replaced by splendor and majesty, for a moment of respite from the world’s chaotic spell culling us toward apathy and am reminded of another of Paul’s exhortations:

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.”

Romans 12:2 KJV

This verse is a splendid reminder to run to the Word of God and entertain His bid to come into His presence where we can find rest for our weary souls. The weariness of this nation’s political theatre, the constant reminder of impending destruction, the wars and rumors of wars encircling the globe and the media, and the desire to work in my community for good, only to be chastised by friends for trying to do what is right, takes a severe toll on my psyche requiring maintenance.

As I pray and think about how to escape the treacherous season upon us, the powerful and liberating Holy Writ reminds me:

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

Hebrews 4:12 ESV

I think about the consequences of my actions: when I vote at city council meetings and their effect on the community, my behavior while raising and training my children and nurturing the relationship with my wife, and my speech and public and private examples consumed by it all, wondering if it will all hold water, if it is enough.

How can I endure when these momentary afflictions present tremendous obstacles? How can I maintain my integrity and be a light and a blessing in all my endeavors? How can I prevail when I feel like the war Paul described in Romans 7 between his flesh and his spirit is similarly raging within me now? Do I have the strength to persist and overcome? Will I be numbered among those who endure to the end? Will my mind ever be able to heed Paul’s exhortation in its meditations?

And I’m reminded of the Lord’s invitation:

“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Matthew 11:28-30 KJV

Therefore, I will continue to run to Him, thinking about those things Paul exhorts, looking to the Author and Finisher of Faith, the Creator of things seen and unseen, knowing that He who promised release to the captives and the opening of prison doors to the bound is watching over His word to perform it and is faithful, providing a future and a hope. If ever we are overwhelmed in these foreboding times, we can find hope running to the Lord with a simple, childlike faith and believing that He is, and He rewards those who diligently seek Him, not that I’m looking for the gift, but for the Giver of Life Himself.