The Use of Reason

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     Man is endowed with ability to reason, which places him on a higher plane than the dumb animal. Reason conveys to him the right of choice, and he chooses between good and evil, according to conclusions reached in exercise of this ability. Adam was forced to choose when tempted by the forbidden fruit. His selection was a result of his reasoning that he would be as God after eating. We see that from the beginning man's actions are based upon reasoning, but not all of his conclusions have been correct. Adam justified his action with reasons born of the desire to gratify self and herein lies the downfall of man.

     Throughout the ages, many have used the function of reason only to gratify and fulfill selfish desires. Only a few have used their natural abilities in search for truth, regardless of self. These stand forth in history as men of courage, giving no quarter and asking none when convinced they had discovered truth. They were often ridiculed, and in most cases were men of no material wealth, for they sought not prestige, desiring only to be known as humble, sincere seekers after truth.

     Our civilization is probably more advanced than any preceding it. History records numerous mistakes, and we have profited by many of them. But all of our technological developments but emphasize the wisdom and power of the Master Creator. The more knowledge man obtains of the universe, the more he is forced to recognize the Supreme Power that controls all things. It seems incredible that man is still entrapped by his desire for fame, directing his energies to increase his own importance, and seeking the esteem of his fellow beings.

     Events now transpiring on an international scale manifest the lofty pride in power. In technology, education, manpower, and other areas, we, as a nation, are attempting to prove our superiority to

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others. We contribute to a caste system in our own country, specializing in skills controlled by powerful unions which dictate just who may be hired to build our own homes! Every facet of our existence is tinged with the desire for recognition and pride of accomplishment. It was this which caused Simon to offer money to Peter for the God-given power of the apostles. It caused the mother or James and John to seek preferential treatment for her sons from Jesus. This spirit is as old as man himself.

     The thought of high office, the desire to be liked by others, these color our whole lives. We frame our convictions not on truth, but measuring our reason by what our associates will think of us. Have we lost sight of our goal? Do we forget that we are to be judged of God. Is it not reasonable to pursue his mandates, disregarding opinions of men? Do we overlook Paul's reason for saying we must not "think more highly of ourselves than we ought to think"? Have we forgotten that salvation is an individual responsibility, and that we are directly responsible to him? This may well be the most important thing in the realm of thought.

     It is not difficult to understand that God loves his creation. That this love is not returned by the creature is not normal. Love is reciprocal, and he who admit that God is, or who professes a love for s him, yet delays in a search for the truths that are God-given renounces his profession. Even love between the sexes searches for all knowledge of each party, so that in intimately knowing each other, they may better understand one another. Yet, in the matter of our professed love for God, we are content to let others search for us, and to know him in our behalf, making the lame excuse that the love of God is too profound for the simple man. This is just not true!

     Every man possessing the power of reason can search out the riches of God's love. There is no excuse. As knowledge grows, faith will grow also. Let every man serve according to his own sense of responsibility in the light of God's word. --Harmon Thompson.