Observation: Even as Solomon wrote this proverb about how a buyer manipulates a seller - or manipulates others into forming an opinion of his bargaining skills - there should be a companion proverb. "'Tremendously valuable' the seller cries even as he lowers his price. But afterwards he boasts of his profit."
For millennia, two sides of a negotiation have manipulated and and deceived each other about whatever matter they are discussing, then declare "victory" when it is done.
Application: Last night, we had a discussion about how this is done today, with the introduction of the manipulation of emotions contained within the news. Facts are not just presented, but we are told by those with specific interests how we should feel about those facts. Others' actions are lauded or vilified, not just reported (and sometimes others are vilified without any related actions at all). We are told what to fear, whom to like, what to hate, and who is at fault. We are rarely told a stand-alone truth.
Even 3,000 years ago, we see that a seller couldn't have said "this is what it is worth" and a buyer "this is how much I have". Instead, they haggle, deceive, and then brag of victory.
On every front today - even the ones with shared or universal goals and interests - no one will say "this is our goal" and the other "this is our goal". Instead, they fight each other will coercing others to their opinion.
I am sick of it.
Prayer: Lord, please forgive me if I too function within this model of deception and manipulation. I do not desire to be of the world. While I do not want to be taken advantage of, I would like to be honest in dealing with others. Please give me and my family your wisdom in such matters. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment