Confusion

People manage confusion differently. Some talk. Some are silent. Some are quick to grab for the controls while others are reticent. Some jabber, some ponder.

While this is typical of humanity, is there a model for managing confusing times?

One group of people are trained to mange confusion because confusion is constant in their job. Any veteran of military combat will tell you that combat is confusing.

So, how do military trainers prepare soldiers for the confusion of combat?

They train, and train, and train. They train until they build into soldiers a muscle memory that becomes their default when they experience confusion in combat.

Similarly, in the confusion of the first century, the young church was under tremendous duress. Much of Peter’s counsel is to Believers buffeted by persecution and confusion. He says, “Therefore, gird your minds for action.” “Apply all diligence.”

Paul counsels to “let your mind dwell on truth” and to “practice what is true.”

I think it’s safe to say that no one knows exactly what’s going on right now. Rather than simply twist in the winds of confusion, revert to your training. Return to what is true.

Review Peter’s counsel. Practice Paul’s guidance.

As Paul says elsewhere, “Set your mind on what is true.”

Fall back to your secure position in Christ. Reinforce what is true.

The confusion will abate. In the meantime, seize the advantage. Reinforce your spiritual muscle memory.