The Deceit of Self-Reliance: The Spear

Those who are part of the upper middle class and the wealthy often fall prey to two deceptions that especially lure them. Those two social segements live daily life in 'a world' surrounded by 'people achievements'. Human technology touches their lives at almost every point of existence. They dream of yet greater human achievements. As they dream, they are convinced that, given time and resources, there is no problem humanity cannot solve, no challenge humanity cannot meet.

What are the two common deceptions? The first is a deep skepticism of 'little people' who fail to see the world as 'I do.' They see humanity that is afflicted by poverty, a lack of education, and a lack of technological resources as 'contributors' to the world's problems. Rarely do they see those people as those who can make a meaningful contribution to significant solutions. Those who are forced to struggle because of adversities and the greed of people often not only see reality differently, but see real problems 'in a completely different light.' They need to be heard, not manipulated.

The second is the conviction that people of themselves [especially priviledged people] are the masters of their own existence and world. The arrogance that produces the conviction that we are bigger than we actually are is very deceptive and horribly destructive. When any human or group of humans think, "We know what is best for the world," everyone needs to beware! That is not a new conclusion! In the past it consistently produced tragedy!

Moses' ancient warning to Israel in Deuteronony 8:11-20 is relevant! It began with the simple warning: "Beware!" Beware of what? Beware of self-sufficiency! Beware of forgetting that human effort did not produce your blessings and advantages!

Moses warned Israel of a time that was certain to come. "Beware of the time when you have all you want to eat! Beware of the time when you are wealthy! Beware of the time when you forget your past's dependency. Beware of the time when you forget past blessings were received because they were given, not because you produced them! Beware of the time when you forget God's involvement in your past!"

Why? "For this reason: you will say in your heart, 'I alone am responsible for what I have. My wealth is the result of my ingenuinty and hard work!'"

When you think from that perspective you will conclude with certainty that you made God! He (idolatry) is the product of your mind and artistry! What 'I' consider deity depends on 'me', not 'me' on 'it'. 'I' certainly in no way am the product of deity!"

When that moment comes God will abandon you and leave you to your own devices. You will certainly perish because in your lack of acknowledgement of His existence He will leave you to your own weakness.

Is it not amazing that in all our great human wisdom we have not learned how to replace war with peace, or greed with compassion, or skepticism with hope. Is it not amazing that our greatest technological advances are quickly applied to killing those who disagree with us? Is it not amazing that our best answers for resolving conflict involve control and fear? Is it not amazing that solutions to human vices always involve the death of those who oppose us? We justify horrible behavior to end horrible behavior!

He or she who places hope in humanity leans on a spear--point upward! As Israel was told thousands of years ago, 'Beware!'