The definition of legal is “a formal status derived from law often without a basis in actual fact”. I wander sometimes about the last part stating without basis of actual fact. No matter what profession you choose, you become a representative of your profession to the outside world. A Doctor represents his or her profession and becomes an expert in their field. As a patient, we are under their rules whether actual fact or their best judgement. How do we choose?
My old truck had an oil leak. All the expert mechanics said expensive to replace oil line. I pointed out to several that the leak appeared to be a loose connection at my radiator. The experts all said no. Instead of accepting a huge expense on an old truck, I decided to tighten up the connection myself. Guest what? No more leaks. Do you accept the expert opinion of one or get a second and third opinion? Perhaps, your final decision is based on common sense?
Doctors or mechanics are in the business of practicing their professions based on certain facts or educated assumptions. I had one Doctor tell me that he is not in the business of making assumptions. However, he could not tell me his recommended procedure would reveal any further findings. As a mechanic, it is easier to replace parts until problem solved, at the expense of the customer. Likewise, a doctor may see the solution as just another procedure at the expense of the patient. I am not suggesting to stay away from doctors or mechanics but I believe we need to be cautious of the experts. We should get multiple opinions, in my opinion, then make your best decision for your situation.
Politicians love to promise the moon during campaigns but when the voting is over, do they change their tune? I read a fictitious story recently about a politician who died and was given the choice to go to heaven or hell. He was first sent to hell where all of his passed buddies were playing golf and they all ended up dining with the devil in luxury. He was then sent to heaven where his eternal life was shown to be total peace without his friends and new devil friend. He chose to go back to hell where he was met by the devil for an eternal life of slavery with no green fields but only devastated land. All his passed friends were held in bondage to work the worthless land. He asked what happened? The devil said, before his decision, they were campaigning, but now they got his vote.
In Mark 12 starting at verse 38, Jesus warns us to watch out for the legal experts who walk around in long robes and want to be greeted with honor. They care not for you or me but it is all about their gain at your expense. Deceivers throw lots of money around out of their spare change. Whereas, the true believers give what they need to live.
Are we intended to give everything we have? In my opinion, we are intended to be aware of the legal experts, get multiple opinions then give or choose according to God’s will not ours.
T