Beyond what the Earth can Bear

Scripture:
Three things are too much for even the earth to bear,
     yes, four things shake its foundations—
          when the janitor becomes the boss,
          when a fool gets rich,
          when a prostitute is voted “woman of the year,”
          when a “girlfriend” replaces a faithful wife.

Proverbs 30:21-23

Observation: This section of proverbs is very pointed in observing foolish behavior, and specifically calling out greed and arrogance and lust-filled lives. This list of four things is provocative to think about, as these are not just a warning about behaviors, but these have a consequence ... the natural order of the world cannot bear up when these things happen.

1) When people of limited means are placed in control of the lives of others.

2) When foolish persons gain power through wealth.

3) When acts of sin and promiscuity are declared virtuous.

4) When families are torn apart by denying the need for union.

Application: I can't help but acknowledging that these four elements are effectively the 'modus operandi' of society today, and perhaps most specifically spearheaded by the "celebrity" culture of our time.

We have major enterprises run by individuals with effectively no education and qualifications. They are placed in these positions of authority, and thus given control over lives of thousands - and then allowed to influence the thinking of millions - because they have amassed ridiculous fortunes due to their performing 'talent'. They go through "personal setbacks" like divorce and betrayal, even entering into unnatural relationships, and they are described using words like "brave" and "survivor" in these scenarios. Their personal lives are the thing of transcendent culture as they move from relationship to relationship with a freedom celebrated by the masses.

Dear Lord. Our very culture shakes the foundations of the world. It is too much for even the earth to bear. Where are we to go from here?

Prayer: Lord, we use the words 'revival' and 'awakening' to see the times you have moved with strength in society in the past, and to hope for such a movement to come. Well, we're out of options, we need revival and awakening in the U.S. There isn't a model where our society and pull back from this cliffside ledge without you. Please, dear Lord, send your Spirit, and turn our nation. Amen.