Thinking Things Through

[Page 12]

     For some reason man has always been inclined to employ a certain degree of bluff. He seeks to conceal a part of his real self from others. He is disposed to be a different person under some circumstances than under others. This deceptive quality was prevalent even in the days of Adam. Although ungodly and unchristian it probably dominates our lives more than we realize.

     Whether this trait is motivated by feelings of inferiority, superiority, fear of criticism, or a combination of all these, the result is the same. It serves as a smoke screen which will be detected, the time depending on the dexterity of him who hides behind it. However, judgment is generally based on what is seen, and may be in error, as it was in the case of Samuel when sent to select a son of Jesse to be king (1 Sam. 16). God taught him that false impressions do not enter into divine judgment which is on the basis of true merit. It is a deflating thought that God sees us as we are with every kink of nature brightly illuminated (Heb. 4:12).

     No doubt folks sometimes long for soul companionship, but are hesitant to reveal the sentiments and emotions in their hearts without reservation or restraint, so are thereby denied the joy that springs from true friendship. A real understanding comes only when people rise above petty prejudices and false pride, and freely and honestly open their hearts to one another without a protecting shield.

     Friendship founded upon nothing more substantial than carefully selected words of "small talk" has little root and will stand but little strain. As plant life withers and dies without the God-given elements vital to its growth, Christianity will not, and cannot, reproduce in the infertile ground of simulation, because it has no sustaining or germinating quality. It becomes meaningless and ineffective. Like chaff, there is no grain in it, consequently it loses its identity with true Christianity and serves no constructive purpose. --F. L. Rosebery.