SCRIPTURE:
“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.”
Colossians 2:8
OBSERVATION:
This verse is so succinct, yet so insightful and cautionary for us as people of faith whose heart is to walk in the will and light of Jesus Christ. It is such a profound reminder not to let anyone deceive us in what they influence us in, or draw us to think, believe, and do, especially when what they are sharing, enticing, or proposing to us to believe is based on tradition, trend, culture, or relevant, that is or can be in conflict with the Lord’s way and will for our lives. It often is worldly, of the flesh, and veiled sin.
APPLICATION:
I immediately think of a recent good will festival that was presented at Ala Moana Park. It was an extravaganza that cost an unbelievable amount of money in décor, arrangements, and presentation; and which was widely accepted by the public and local government as a good will festival event. It was a lantern release honoring the dead, which understandably would tug on the heart strings when thinking of one’s loved ones who have passed. Yet, the whole basis, money, support, and presentations were of Buddhism including the burning of incense to deities. Wow … did you know?
We are also often deceived by our own cultural traditions. Being of Hawaiian ancestry, a past Hawaiian performer and having a Hawaiian Studies degree, I realize as a Christian that many Hawaiian spiritual beliefs are not in accord with the will of the one true God, and what we think is history, culture, and tradition in chants and dances are actually honoring the Hawaiian gods and deities, especially when we chant to them. Singers and dancers often give homage to ancient Hawaiian deities and don’t even realize it.
How about the smooth, convincing and persuasive businesspeople who convince us to compromise our Christian values and beliefs for the possibility of fame and fortune? We go to church and praise God, and then during the week bend and compromise what we know is not God’s, in order to make the deal, turn a profit, or get recognized. This is one of the reasons I felt compelled to leave the secular and corporate business world as success often led me to a place of compromise.
Ever take part in a yoga class, martial arts class, or meditation class where you are encouraged to meditate? You’re not sure why, but just like the other students, you bow in the dojo like everyone else to that “shrine thing” up in the front of the class?
As a follower of Jesus Christ, we are called to know the Word, which will prepare us to be discerning of the false philosophies, doctrines, and disguised faiths. Our time with God in prayer will enable Him to speak to our heart and give us wisdom and discernment. We will also be able to gain insight to see the truth from the false and have the spirit of God connected to our heart enabling us to hear the still voice of the Holy Spirit with discernment and wisdom.
PRAYER:
My dear Lord, thank you for reminding me that I need to stay committed in Your Word, prayer, and reflection time with you so that I will have wisdom and discernment to guard myself from the entrapments of the world that are often so strategically disguised as harmless. May my heart and life stay true to the one and only true God, the Lord Jesus Christ.
