Have you ever had to guard something? It sounds tedious (probably because it is). I wish the world was different so you did not have to guard things…but we do. Guarding is only done for things that are valuable so they will not be taken or destroyed.
Recently I shared a message on how to guard your heart to keep negative emotions from hiding in your blind spot. It is important because what hides in our blind spots often blind sides us, hurting both you and the people closest to you. If you missed it you can check it out here.
Guarding your heart isn’t a foreign concept. We get the basic idea whether you are a follower of Jesus or not. You must pay attention to your feelings, relationships, and inner world. It is part of the reason mental health is such a focus.
One area I have not heard many talk about guarding is their worldview. I know you first thought is huh? There is a reason no one talks about guarding their worldview…that’s not a thing.
It is a thing, we just use different terms.
I was looking for another word to use for worldview and Thesaurus.com suggested Weltanschauug…now I know exactly what it is! j/k
Your worldview is simply your perspective and position on a few important questions.
Truth be told most people just go with whatever sounds good, what they feel in the moment, or whatever their favorite flavor of media says. They have not thought about it or built it from a solid foundation.
That is dangerous. Your decisions, your future, your morality and integrity, your kid’s lives and the legacy you leave is deeply dependent on your worldview.
It is worth thinking about and once determined it is worth guarding.
For me, as much as I can, I base my world view, my positions, my perspective on the Bible. I know not everyone does.
The answers I find to the most compelling questions in life are not very satisfying outside of the Bible. However, the Bible is often in stark contrast to prevailing culture.
I want to give you a few questions that would be vital for you to answer if you intend to build a meaningful worldview. I will also give you a summary of how and where the Bible addresses these questions. I hope you will wrestle with them.
1. What is the Purpose of My Life?
Many say self-fulfillment and personal happiness are the ultimate goals. However, the Bible teaches that our primary purpose is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. Ecclesiastes 12:13 says, “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” This perspective shifts the focus from self-centered ambition to a life devoted to God’s will.
2. How Should I View Identity and Worth?
It is common to base identity on personal feelings and societal trends, promoting the idea that individuals can define themselves in any way they choose. In contrast, the Bible asserts that our identity and worth are found in being created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This understanding calls us to respect the inherent dignity of every person and recognize our true identity as children of God, not as beings defined by transient desires or social constructs.
3. What Defines Morality and Ethical Living?
For culture morality is often seen as relative and subjective, changing with societal norms. However, Christians believe in absolute moral truths grounded in the nature and character of God. Psalm 119:105 states, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” This means our moral compass is set by the unchanging truths of Scripture, not by the shifting sands of cultural opinion.
4. How Should I Approach Marriage and Family?
The institution of marriage and the concept of family are under significant redefinition today. The Biblical view holds that marriage is a sacred covenant between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:4-6). This understanding impacts how we view family structures, the upbringing of children, and the roles of husbands and wives. Ephesians 5:25 instructs, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her,” highlighting the sacrificial love that should characterize marital relationships.
5. How Do I Engage with Cultural and Political Issues?
Navigating cultural and political issues as a Christian requires discernment and a commitment to Biblical principles. Romans 12:2 advises, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This means critically evaluating cultural trends and political movements against the truths of Scripture, rather than adopting them uncritically.
6. How Should I Handle Wealth and Material Possessions?
The pursuit of wealth and material success is often celebrated in contemporary society. However, the Bible warns against the dangers of materialism and calls for a different approach to wealth. 1 Timothy 6:10 states, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” Christians are called to use their resources for God’s kingdom and the welfare of others, practicing generosity and contentment rather than greed and excess.
7. What Role Does Suffering Play in My Life?
For most their worldview seeks to avoid suffering at all costs, often prioritizing comfort and personal well-being. In contrast, the Bible acknowledges the reality of suffering and sees it as a means of spiritual growth and reliance on God. Romans 5:3-4 tells us, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” This perspective helps Christians understand suffering as part of God’s redemptive plan.
8. How Should I View Human Sexuality?
In many ways society promotes a fluid understanding of human sexuality. In contrast, the Bible provides clear guidance on sexuality, affirming that sexual relations are intended to be enjoyed within the bounds of marriage between one man and one woman (Hebrews 13:4). Upholding this Biblical standard requires courage and grace in a society that often holds opposing views.
9. What is the Role of the Church in My Life?
Individualism is a hallmark of contemporary culture, sometimes leading to a diminished view of the church’s importance. The Bible, however, emphasizes the church as the body of Christ, where believers are called to gather, worship, and serve together (Hebrews 10:24-25). Engaging actively in a local church is crucial for spiritual growth and community.
These are heavy, but important things to think about. They deserve your time, effort, and even frustration. Wrestle them to the ground. Insiste on getting an answer. What do you really believe?
Once you know, you see things more clearly. That is why it is critical, once you have an answer to guard your worldview.
Not to be close minded…just the opposite. So, you can be open minded when you hear something new. Now you have a thorough perspective to use as a filter for all the things you encounter.
As Christians living in a rapidly changing world, it’s vital to anchor our lives in the eternal truths of Scripture. The questions we face are complex, but the Bible provides wisdom and guidance to navigate them faithfully.
By wrestling with these questions from a Biblical perspective, we can make choices that honor God, reflect His love, and stand as a testament to His truth in a world that often pulls in the opposite direction.
In doing so, we fulfill our calling to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16), shining God’s truth in a world in desperate need of His hope and salvation.
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