I had a conversation a few days ago with someone who insisted he lived as a "principled man." This self-characterization came as an alternative solution to my expression of a desire to seek God's wisdom as an answer to a dilemma. I recoiled, "Did you ever see the movie, 'No Country for Old Men?'" He had. I continued. "There was a man," I said of the story's villain, "who lived by principles."
I do not argue that a man should not live a principled life. I do, however, believe that living a life based primarily on principles can lead into the temptation of self-righteousness, thereby setting the yielding captive in the judgment seat above others where he will relentlessly pursue the ever-elusive illusion of control of everyone and everything. Ultimately frustrated with the losing battle, he will slide down the slippery slope of resentment and bitterness, which will drive him ever further into his obsession until his insides rot.
"Lord, let us never believe we have reached our final destination in our search for truth. Help us rather to find love and love others, for love conquers all."
