5/17/12 Michael, about 15
"Law
to the proud, grace to the humble" is a biblical rule of thumb to use in
sharing the Gospel. Like those who think
they are healthy and have no need of a doctor, people who are proud of their
own self righteousness see no need for the Savior. But my experiences in talking to people on
the street has shown that the vast majority of people are convinced of their
own goodness, or at least convinced of the validity of their excuses. How do I recognize a humble person when I
truly find one? Yesterday I talked to
Michael as he waited for his sister to pick him up outside his boxing gym. Michael was one of the small percentage of
people I've talked to who told me he thought that because of his sins he will
go to hell. In fact, he believes that it
is too late to change, so why even try?
He said he isn't part of a gang but plans on violent revenge against
some local gang members who have been harassing him and his family. He knows this isn't God's way to handle the
situation, but he feels there is no alternative, and this is the excuse he uses
to justify other sins in his life as well.
I tried to help him see that he is rejecting God's commands and counsel,
rebelling against God in much the same way as Adam did in the Garden of
Eden. For young people in situations
like Michael's, Jesus' command to 'turn the other cheek" can seem
ridiculous, but there it is. My advice
to Michael seemed just as ridiculous to him except for one thing - several
other Christians have also talked to him recently about the same thing, and
Michael knew it was no coincidence. God
was talking to him, and he was starting to listen.
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