(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Some of the brightest minds of the 17th and 18th Centuries led to a period in time which is now referred to as the Enlightenment. This era in history led to an increase in education, thought, and human reason. The impact from this period of time on Western Civilization cannot be underestimated. While it’s difficult to summarize the overall impact of the Enlightenment, it seems clear that much of current Western society believes that humanity now has enough intellect and reason, that we and we alone can create systems, governments, and policies to make the lives of all people better.
This belief has permeated politics and policies of every Westernized nation. Both the Left and the Right strongly believe that if just the right policies and systems are in place, all of society will benefit. It is a deeply rooted belief that whatever is wrong with the world, humanity can fix it.
This is, of course, an impossibility. While updating laws and policies is an essential need for all of society, those laws and policies cannot bring people back into right relationship with God. The problems of this world cannot all be fixed by human reason. We desperately need the love of God.
READING & PRAYERS:
2 CORINTHIANS 5:11-21 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: What are some subtle ways you see the impact of the Enlightenment impacting our society today?
DIGGING DEEPER: What may be one area of your own life in which you focus more on your own intellect and reason than prayerfully discerning God’s will in your life?
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I recognize that throughout the Scriptures there are three institutions which You have created — the family, the church, and the state. While each of these are essential for governing our society, I know that all people desperately need You in order to live a life of true flourishing. May I put all of my hope and trust in You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
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