Unfortunately, a day rarely goes by without a fight, shooting or stabbing making headline news. Students, workers and innocent bystanders are being caught in the cross fire of violence. As a vehicle of peace, Gandhi believed you had to slowly wean people from violence without force. Over time, you will win people toward your point of view.
Jesus demonstrated this belief during his 3 year ministry in the late 20’s of the first century. When his fellow Jews flirted with the idea of overthrowing the political leaders in Israel, Jesus chose peace. Despite being falsely accused of crimes he did not commit by the Sanhedrin, Jesus gave up his right to life so that the Scriptures would be fulfilled, Matthew 26:52-56. Although he invested 3 years into 12 men, the temptation to fight back could not be quenched.
Today, domestic violence is a common occurrence, like a nagging cold that won’t go away. Instead of demonstrating temperance, going the right distance and no further, human beings have lost control of their emotions. Patience has been discarded, as anger, control and power is urging frustrated souls to lash out, often harming family members. The only way I know to wean people from violence is to adhere to the apostle Paul’s advice in Ephesians 4:25-32. When you reach this state of mind, God will lead you to lay your weapons down.
What’s your solution to wean Americans from violence?
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 