This month’s article is from April, 2008. I was looking in my articles folder for one from the past to use and when I read this one it struck me how relevant it was for our emphasis this year on going deeper. Here is a blast for the past on putting to use the knowledge we have of God.
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In the television sitcom from the late sixties “Hogan’s Heroes”, (Sergeant) Hans Schultz was the commandant’s aide at a German prisoner of war camp. Colonel Robert E. Hogan was the leader of a group of prisoners that continued to conduct military operations while in the camp. Much of the humor in the show was centered around the incompetence of the commandant and Sgt. Schultz. A catch phrase from the show, “I see nothing, nothing!” was developed from Sgt. Schultz’s intentional ignorance of the activities of the prisoners. Sometimes it feels good just to say, “I see nothing, nothing.” The less we know the less responsibility we have, right? There is something appealing about knowing very little. I know that sounds funny to say, but it’s true. If we could just escape from the responsibilities at the job and at home for just a week or so whenever we need a break, that would be great. Sometimes we feel the same way when it comes to spiritual matters. What is our attitude towards our knowledge of God? Can we talk about God with confidence or are we afraid that what we are saying might not be quite accurate?
Knowledge and responsibility go hand and hand. And quite frankly, the pressure of wanting to make the right decisions and give people the right answers can be a bit overwhelming. How many times have you said, “The weight of the world is on my shoulders.” I assure you it is not. There is another element that we cannot forget about. Let’s add God’s power to the mix. We have knowledge, responsibility, and power from God. I use the word power because it’s a general word and can be seen in strength during moments of weakness, discernment to make decisions, perseverance to endure difficulties, patience in waiting for answers, peace in uncertain times.
In other words, our confidence is not in us but in God. We don’t need to be afraid of sharing what we know about God. We should never shy away from learning more about God, growing in our relationship with Him and taking on the responsibility that comes with that growth. The more we know the greater impact we can have on those around us. Just as we are called to use our talents, abilities, and other God-given resources for God, we must put our knowledge of God to use for Him as well. In the “Parable of the Talents” one of the men who were given money to invest had the opportunity to make that money grow but chose not too. In his mind it was too great of a risk. He thought he was playing it safe. When he had to appear before his master and give account for the money, he was given there was no gain and his master was upset with him. Are we playing it safe or are we being responsible with what we know about God? Ignorance isn’t bliss; it’s just an excuse for not sharing the truth that we do know. It is a privilege to know God and His ways. We must share it and live it!

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