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Are Your Political Views Demonic?
An Important Lesson from the Epistle of James
In his First Inaugural Address, President Abraham Lincoln appealed to all Americans to get in touch with “the better angels of our nature.” Sadly, few (especially in the South) were listening. And our nation descended into a catastrophic and bloody civil war.
As a citizen of the United States — one who still loves his country — I am deeply concerned that most Americans in 2023 are likewise not in touch with the “better angels of our nature.”
Instead, we are listening to the other team.
I realize not everyone reading this shares my faith (or Lincoln’s faith), but this doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from ancient wisdom. I don’t fully agree with Marcus Aurelius, but there’s still much to commend in his iconic Meditations.
You may not accept the Bible as divinely inspired, but if you wish to be a voice of compassion, justice, and wisdom in this polarized age, it is worthwhile to consider something James, the brother (technically half-brother) of Jesus, wrote 2000 years ago.
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the…
