Tuesday August 11, 2015
I read with interest the recent story on the internet regarding Houston Texans running back, Arian Foster’s public revelation that he is an atheist. My first reaction was one of sadness because his being surrounded by teammates who are openly Christian throughout his football career stretching from high school to the pros, apparently never rubbed off on him. I read where he made the presumptuous assessment most atheists make, namely that a “God” would not create all the evil and suffering in the world. Where do folks get the notion that God and not people creates evil in the first place? Needless to say, a great number of people commented on that story, quite a few of them being Christians writing that they would pray for Foster with the hope that one day he too can come to know Christ. To me that was an exercise in futility because most of these well meaning posts were quickly ridiculed by others. That reminded me of Jesus’ words, “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.” (Mt. 7:6)
Speaking of pigs, remember the story of the pig farmer who stopped at a city restaurant one day and when served his meal, he removed his hat, bowed his head, and prayed silently? A group of scoundrels who were nearby came to his table as soon as the farmer bowed his head. When he was through praying, one of them said sarcastically and in a loud voice: “Hey farmer, does everyone where you come from pray over their food?” The farmer replied, “No, the pigs don’t.”
Actually, that Christians and their views would be attacked in today’s society should not come as a shock to any of us since the Bible predicted it. Paul, writing about the general character about people in the last days said that they, among other things, would despise those that are good. (See 2 Timothy 2:3) Have you ever wondered why so many Christians, especially those who lead exemplary lives, are despised? The answer is really quite simple. A godly life is an indictment against all who live ungodly lives. That is why Christ was hated by the religious leaders of His day. He exposed the wickedness and corruption that was in their hearts. That being said, we must not stop trying to live a God honoring life. Though many in this world may despise and verbally attack us, especially those in an open public forum, there will always be a few who will believe our testimony, whether they hear it or just simply see it in our lives. One day we will see it’s fruit and if not in this life, surely in the next. As a favorite Christian song declares: “It will be worth it all when we see Jesus.”
Memory Verse for the week: (Ecclesiastes 10:1 NLT) “As dead flies cause even a bottle of perfume to stink, so a little foolishness spoils great wisdom and honor.”
