A True Believer
is someone who believes something to be true in spite of all evidence to the
contrary.
True Believers
embrace all evidence supporting their beliefs while ignoring all evidence
inconsistent with their beliefs, branding them as lies or at least misinformation.
True Believers
enjoy debating, discussing and arguing because it gives them a chance to
present all their arguments in support of their beliefs. They never listen to
those with whom they are arguing, however, both because they think they have
nothing to learn from those who are wrong, and because they are afraid they may be misled by those who are evil.
True Believers are increasingly a problem in today's world. Extremists on both the left and right dominate political discussions today, rendering powerless those moderates who seek unity and common ground.
Some would
argue that those who believe in God, Jesus and the Bible are True Believers in
this sense; indeed, some are, but not all. Many with strong beliefs are nonetheless open
to change their mind when presented with new ideas and evidence because they
are committed to learn and grow. Like the Apostle Paul, they believe in this
life we “see through a glass darkly,” and will only see clearly in the life to
come.
It isn’t a
simple matter for True Believers to change their minds, but nothing is
impossible with God. Here are some things to keep in mind when dealing with
True Believers among your friends and within your family:
Be humble and gentle. People never
change their mind because someone overpowers them, yelling louder than they do.
Arguments which turn into shouting matches accomplish little other than
straining relationships by making each side more defensive and more determined
to win (or at least not to lose).
Be patient and persistent. Those whose
beliefs are well-defended are often terrified by what might happen if they
begin to think differently. It can take months or even years for people to find
the courage to accept the validity of new ideas and evidence.
Be prayerful. Jesus said the Holy
Spirit would lead us into all truth. Throughout history God has changed the
hearts and minds of people, even those who have strongly resisted. Trust God to
be at work in the lives of others and make sure you are open to God’s leading in
your own life.
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