KNOWN

When we feel a detail or fact is completely true and have no doubts about its veracity it can be such a thrill. In a world full of uncertainty those little moments of anchors can be so enriching.

Providing they are really known and not just some illusion or wishful thinking. That happens a lot.

The problem is one as I see it one of perception. How difficult it is at times to always appreciate when somebody is being truthful about some experience.

The more abstract or bizarre the more we are likely to question if the person is telling the truth. And even more so if we haven't had the same experience.

However, it does not make their event a lie. What we can not say is the cause or origin.
Lot of people speak about things such as encountering angels or ghost.

A few might make things up, but not all. Some truly sharing what they encountered. What can't be said is if they really correctly perceived the moment.

I have appreciated how often in the Christian view of what is known there is a certain sense of rigid thinking. A tendency to try to keep things black and white.

Life is never like that. And in reality even what we take on faith such as eternity is not so concrete in terms of evidence that others will take out word for its truth.

What is said is in more subtle ways is how often one expects others to accept Christian truths, but not show respect of other point of views. Not to say one has to accept them as true, but at least show the other person courtesy of listening to what they have to say.

It is sadly a double standard. In part I can appreciate it. When you see one view as universal truth it isn't easy to tolerate views that contradict one's idea of truth.

How to achieve a balance can be so hard. To hold onto the truth, yet not be unkind to those of different opinions.

God's spirit can help to counterbalance the reaction. Only through His power can we both firm in what is known and yet tolerant at the same time.

But listening can be so hard. For emotions can always get in the way. We can allow ego to dominate.

When that is what speaks from our lips it never brings any fruit that honors the Lord. All that comes forth is something hurtful.

And that will never help our view of known to find new believers.