Thomas Oppong, “Think for Yourself, Not by Yourself”
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace. (1 Peter 4:10)
Sometimes you can wade through an entire book or article, and nothing speaks to you. Then, suddenly, there is a line or phrase that speaks to your heart. Thomas Oppong had a single sentence that spoke to me in his article, “Think for Yourself, Not by Yourself.” Oppong suggests, “The best way to approach life is to balance independent thinking and engagement with other great minds.” Independent thinking and engagement with others are the cornerstones of the Christian faith.
One key phrase in our PCUSA Book of Order for hundreds of years was, “God alone is Lord of the conscience…”. The phrase declares that each of us has an independent mind, and the Holy Spirit works through each uniquely. Yet, we cannot be an island unto ourselves, to borrow from John Donne. Our thought process will remain stagnant unless we reach out and listen to the ideas of others.
Christians lay the foundation of their faith on the inspiration of sacred Scripture. In reading stories, laws, poetry, and other forms of wisdom from both Testaments, we are able to learn how God interacted with people of old, helping our understanding of how God might interact with us. Interaction with Scripture can guide our actions and affirm our decision-making.
The second way God calls us to engagement is in the act of corporate worship and participation in the Christian family of a local congregation. Throughout my life, I’ve learned volumes from the wise counsel and example from those young and old in my church families. You cannot sit on the periphery and expect to be graced with learning. When you weave your life into the life of others in the congregation, your learning begins and they can learn from you. Relational engagement in faith is often the closest feeling of heaven we can experience on earth. In engagement, love, support, and care are received and given. Pray for the Lord to guide your conscience, and read the Bible and embrace your church family. Those three activities will bring you a sacred and fulfilling life.