Dan Neumann

orlobooks@verizon.net

The Bible’s Guidelines to Everyday Life

A Personal Essay

The Bible, at the most elementary level, is a series of guidelines. It is commonly referred to as “The Great Instruction Manual” or possibly the “Directions for All Good Christians to Follow.” However, I humbly disagree with those definitions. For, if those interpretations of the Bible were true, it would imply an anomaly one can label – for now – as “God’s Tally.”

What is “God’s Tally”? It is an old belief latent in human psychology. Alchemists called it “Neutrality,” where the positive and negative are both incorporated into the effect of all things. Today, though, we favorably lean toward the term “Karma.” At any rate, all three words carry the same ideology: At the end, we are judged for all the good and the bad.

How absurd would it be for God to judge us in that manner? An intentional balance was instilled in us, so that we have human trials. But God is grander; he judges by love. This was – for the most part – the rationale behind Martin Luther’s attempt to reform “The Church.” He tried to rid indulgences from Christian life, but ultimately had to start a whole new sect. of churches.

One may interpret for infinity the great laws that must be hidden within the Bible. And, although the sacred text may have communication faults, some concepts are far too evident to deny. God expects the people of the world to respect each other, to posture themselves in a dignified manner, and to understand how much He loves us.

So, why do we have the Bible? Because, if we do love God, why not make him happy? Isn’t that what free will is all about? An action of sincere respect will always outweigh the obligation of duty. This, too, is incorporated in the human psyche; anyone can appreciate loving admiration over routine responsibilities.

On that subject of admiration and respect, one may find the Bible riddled with the concept. “But God was gracious and showed mercy to them. He stuck with them out of respect…” (2 Kings 13:23). The engineer of our reality, the artist of every personality, the mathematician of all the puzzles around us, ad infinitum, showed reverence to His own creations. A lord, one must agree, that is obviously on a separate track of priorities than ours.

“But, what about us?” one may inquire. The Bible, indeed, also sets guidelines for our own behavior. “Children, do what your parents tell you. This is only right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ is the first commandment that has promise attached to it, namely, ‘so you will live well and have a long life.’” (Ephesians 6:1-3). Besides the clear moral significance, this – in addition – predicts a common occurrence: Those who heed an aged (wo)man’s aid will go further than the alternative. Or, in other words, if an individual has more experience, do not mistake your dignity with pride… and listen, especially when they are your parents.

While on the topic of dignity, one must realize how different dignity is than pride. An ego may lead to corruption, but it is healthy to be pleased with yourself. For example, the Bible reads, “When you go out to dinner with an influential person, mind your manners: Don’t gobble your food, don’t talk with your mouth full. And don’t stuff yourself; bridle your appetite.” (Proverbs 23:1-6). This, of course, applies not only to food; the Bible is full of symbolic metaphors and representations.

It can be a capital mistake to assume that one scripture merely represents a broad concept, however. In that same mindset, it is far worse to take a verse too literally. The extent of accuracy lies in precise appliance. One should not weigh words against other words. An example of a commonly accepted scripture – that is typically considered literal – is “But anyone who says 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell." (Mathew 5:22). While later, the Bible tell us that Jesus said, “You fools!" (Luke 11:40).

Does this mean that Jesus is breaking his own rules? Will he be thrown in Hell for this? Firstly, God does not keep score on our sins nor our virtues. And, of course, ‘fool’ is used commonly and, if saying ‘fool’ is that wrong, many souls are in grave trouble. It seems much more reasonable to consider it an illustration – an exemplar for the world to draw upon.

At the end of the day, this last bit of scripture sums up the Bible’s purpose, “You’re blessed when you stay on course, walking steadily on the road revealed by God. You’re blessed when you follow his directions, doing your best to find them… Oh, that my steps might be steady, keeping to the course you set; then I’d never have any regrets in comparing my life with your course.” (Psalms 119:1-12).

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    Dan Neumann: I wrote this for both myself, as a testament of my devotions, and for anyone who is curious. It did not, however, gain inclusion in the Scholastic Writing Contest and I was wondering why. It may be that it is far to slanted to a majority religion... which could be interpreted as projected bias. Tell what you think; I'll be listening.