An assertion that something is a fact without evidence, which causes dispute or doubt. That is the definition of claim. One person claims the other person is wrong or right, depending on that one person’s point of view. Perhaps, the truth is somewhere, but the opposing claims tend to shadow any trust we may have for one another. I get fed up listening to claims from politicians but even more fed up with the media sponsored celebrities who are used to sway voter opinion. In my opinion, it is hard to trust anything anyone claims anymore.
Three years ago I witnessed an agonizing loss of a church member. I saw first hand family members hit with pure reality. At first, claims from medical experts were simple medical challenges that could be treated with medication. Then I saw how, in a few weeks, reality revealed an untreatable disease that took the life of the loved one. The loved one has joined other heavenly hosts that help us along our life’s journey to the ultimate truth.
We all have a role to play in disseminating truth. Claims are no good without facts to back up those claims. Claims without facts are like trains without tracks. They are heavy and get a lot of attention, but go no where. The media will cover the story and many claims will prevail according to which group is supporting their ratings. Eventually, the story gets replaced by some other claim. We all have challenges in life. Do we listen to the claims or do we determine the facts. If we here a claim, before we reach a judgement on the merits of someone’s claim, take the time to get more facts before acting. Whether the claim is a health condition that should have been taken care of immediately, instead of self diagnosis, or some other claim that causes us to act irrational. Let us get in the real game and not get caught in smoke and mirrors. (Note: Some situations will be beyond our control as was the case with my dear friend. In those occasions, put all of your trust in the Divinity.)
James 2:14 says, “claiming to have faith can’t save anyone”. Verse 17 says, “faith is dead when it doesn’t result in faithful activity”. How do you show your faith? Do we make bold statements designed to impress our friends, but not substantiated by good works? Do you demonstrate your faith by your actions that produce miracles guided by the Holy Spirit? Faith is an action word. Claiming to have faith is a statement not founded on facts. All of us are in the game of life together. Use your God given talents to be less a claimer and more a doer of the truth.
T