When I was growing up (i was born in 1961) there was no such thing as black Friday in the context of commerce. The term was first used in a shopping context in 1961 in Philadelphia, where police used it to describe the chaotic crowds and traffic caused by shoppers the day after Thanksgiving. 1980s, retailers began to reframe the term positively, linking it to the idea of businesses moving "into the black" (turning a profit) due to the surge in sales on this day.
This changing of definitions to suit one's agenda is a human phenomenon that was talked about and consequences warned about by the prophet Isaiah. Isaiah 5:20 It's even talked about in Romans 1:18-32, 1 Timothy 4:1-4, and 2 Timothy 3:1-7
This constant trend of changing definitions to suit one's beliefs disturbs me and should disturb you. We take a term that is supposed to be bad and turn it to mean good. We deceive ourselves. We thinks we are "wise in our own eyes". Don't get me started with things like Holloween.
What can we do?
Isaiah 5:20 warns, "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!"Â This verse critiques a moral inversion, where values are distorted and truth is replaced with deception.
To address this trend in a meaningful way:
1. Promote Truth and Moral Clarity
Uphold and teach values rooted in truth, integrity, and justice.
Educate others about the consequences of distorting morality, using both historical and scriptural examples.
2. Lead by Example
Demonstrate a life that reflects godly values. Actions often speak louder than words.
Be consistent in living out righteousness and compassion.
3. Encourage Discernment
Teach others (family, community, or congregation) how to critically evaluate cultural norms and media influences through a biblical lens.
Foster environments where people feel safe to discuss moral dilemmas and seek wisdom.
4. Engage in Constructive Conversations
Speak out against moral inversion with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).
Use conversations to lovingly challenge harmful ideas and present an alternative grounded in truth.
5. Pray for Transformation
Seek God’s guidance for wisdom and strength to navigate and counter these trends.
Pray for cultural renewal and for individuals to seek and embrace truth.
6. Advocate for Justice and Accountability
Support systems that uphold fairness and moral integrity.
Encourage leaders and influencers to align with principles of honesty and virtue.
This approach requires patience and persistence, but it reflects the heart of striving to honor God's truth in a challenging world.
What will you do?
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