The World Ethical Turmoil in 2024

     Currently, the world is in a state of upheaval. Not only is there conflict in many parts, but even in what we would traditionally think of sane democracies, there is very serious trouble. Much of the democratic world is wilting under the pressures and dismay of division, self-centred motives, misinformation, confusion and an utter lack of truth-telling. Acute fracturing is occurring in societies that once prided themselves in fairness, decorum, and respect for others. This used to be manifested in how we spoke to each other. Some of the most discouraging current displays of ethical failure are most pronounced in North America and its leaders. Astoundingly, many people are not looking for, nor do they even want a solution to this. For them, the discord presents opportunity to further their own agendas, which are fueled by an insatiable thirst for power and arrogance. They are content to remain tethered to disharmony.

     In many ways, we look in the wrong places when we expect political leaders to solve these deep fissures in our societies, especially when they are one of the main vectors of the problem. Perhaps in days gone by, there were leaders of character who could amass enough gravitas to right the ship and get it back on course. In the past, those successful at correction could do so because they themselves had a soul and fabric of ethical wisdom and even humility. Regrettably, today, this is hard to find.

     To be sure, we should not be surprised at this serious predicament.

“For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing will be there [Jas. 3:16].”

 We are living under the weight of this predominant problem of “every evil thing”. There are multiple reasons as to why this might be the case. Prominent though, is the eroding moral fabric of men.

This need not be the case.

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy [Jas. 3:17]”.

Scripture is always honest with us, when the world is losing its head. There needs to be a massive re-engagement of these powerful principles of "wisdom from above" which can form a buttress against “bitter envy and selfish ambition” [Jas. 3:14], two deplorable character traits that lead to everything from misplaced war to an erosion of democratic good government and petty leadership. True wisdom which ultimately benefits citizens is “pure, peaceable, gentle, willing to yield and full of mercy and good fruits.” God’s Word never fails us. May the world read it, hear it, and live by it.