By Donnie V. Rader
It is approaching 1:00 a.m. as I write. All in the house are asleep but me. A few minutes ago I just finished reading some material on the value of sleep. I was convinced by the author’s evidence that the body needs proper rest. Toward the end of the material, as my eyes got heavier, his point hit home more than ever.
Surely it has dawned on you, as it did me, that there seems to be some contradiction in staying awake to learn more about the value of sleep. One who would stay awake to the wee hours of the morning to read about the value of sleep surely has some interest in giving his body what it needs. Yet, in the process, the very needs are denied. Isn’t that a little like doing without food in order to have money to buy a book on nutrition?
I got to thinking — folks act the same way in spiritual matters.
All too often some father will work long hours (even taking more than one job) to be able to provide what the family needs. Yet, in the process the very thing they need (his love and attention) is deprived (See: Prov. 22:6; Eph. 6:1-4).
It has always interested me how people engage in Bible study (be it in Bible class or listening to preaching) with- out a Bible. I am amazed at the person who can grasp a text being explained in its context without ever opening the covers of the Bible (See: John 5:39; Acts 17:11).
Purity of thought (Prov. 23:7) is emphasized by parents as they train their children. They are taught about the evils of association and familiarization with sin (Ps. 1:1-3). We, as parents will not allow them to listen to music or watch TV that violates those principles. Yet, some parents will take their children to movies that use a good bit of profanity and even have suggestive scenes (see: Rom. 1:32).
Preachers have been among the worst of those who, in the name of doing good, in the end, do wrong. It is not uncommon to see some preachers who sacrifice all to study the word and go preach. Among the sacrifices (though not intentional) is their health and, even worse, their marriage and children. Preachers, like any other Christians, have the responsibility to be good husbands and fathers (1 Pet. 3:7; Eph. 6:1-4).
I have always been amused at those who will argue with you that it is wrong to debate. Or those who condemn those who condemn. And what about the ones who judge us be- cause they think we are judgmental?
We live in a society that cries out for the poor fellow on death row. Though he may have killed a dozen people, the liberal element will tell us that he is a human being and deserves to live. Yet, the same people will contend for a woman’s right to abort her child (see: Gen. 9:6).
The hour is getting late (or early). I really ought to practice a little of what I just read a while ago. I think I will go to bed.