“1 An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends
and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.
2 Fools find no pleasure in understanding
but delight in airing their own opinions.
14 The human spirit can endure in sickness,
but a crushed spirit who can bear?
”
For most of us in British Columbia this is now the end of five weeks living in isolation. Every day we are hearing new statistics, new conspiracy theories, and an overload of political rhetoric. It is difficult to make sense of what is really going on with this virus; surely someone must know the truth?
Everyone seems to have an opinion on this virus and what the proper medical, political and economic response “should” be. I’m trying to keep myself informed on the numbers while keeping away from those who delight in airing their own opinions. Opinions are not helpful in situations like this, what we need is understanding. We need effective medical treatments and honest math; neither of which have anything to do with opinion.
I have an opinion on how we, as a society, should proceed but at this point Solomon would call me a fool to air it! What I do know is that with each passing day in isolation, the wisdom of Solomon in verse 14 is becoming increasingly relevant. Our leaders would be wise to pay careful attention to Solomon and to proceed prayerfully. Would you join me in praying for an outpouring of wisdom on our leaders today?
P.S. – just for fun, read verse 1 of this chapter in the KJV, NKJV or ESV.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Have you experienced or witnessed the effects of a crushed spirit in this time or in the past? What is the proper Christian response to those whose spirits are being crushed by this? Share your thoughts below.