INTERPRETATIONS OF STRUGGLE

Because the Divine imagery in man involves intelligence, he continually attempts to interpret his condition. This can be good, but it can also be evil. If we assess our situation from the perspective of this world, we will be forced to wrong conclusions. If, on the other hand, we reason as spiritual men, we can profit from introspection.

Ignore by turning to distractions

Inward struggle is viewed by some as antithetical to us. Because of this, some attempt to remove its grim reality by resorting to distractions. They think these will bring relief. The inordinate quest for pleasure and the practice of fleshly indulgences are examples of this kind of activity. It is tragic that much of the religion of our day is nothing more than an appeal to this type of distraction. Religious entertainment is not to be the thrust of our gatherings.

Evidence of inferiority

Others, particularly in the religious realm, view inner struggle as evidence of inferiority. The presence of conflicting emotions and thoughts are considered evidence of the absence of grace. They are also thought to suggest the presence of rebellion. Therefore, doubts and fears are generated by this view of incongruous experiences.

Pretend it is not there

Those enamored of a state of inactivity suppose that conflict is inevitable, and that any effort to address it is pointless. Their fatalistic view forces them to ignore their struggles, pretending they are not there. The result is that they are carried about by their emotions. They rise and fall on the ocean of experience, bobbing up and down upon the uneven sea of life without hope. They do not extend themselves to appropriate the good, nor do they exert effort to avoid evil.