Soldiers report a condition called the “fog of war.” It is a condition that causes one to be so concerned with immediate affairs that he loses site of the big picture. A soldier may become lost or disoriented or may behave in a way not typical. Sometimes even heinous war crimes are committed in the fog of war. Such brings a complete lack of clarity of the mission because the soldier is simply fighting to survive.
Most of us have never seen warfare but we do suffer sometimes from the “fog of life.” Events come at us rapidly with little relief in sight. We struggle just to keep our heads above water but still feel a sense of imminent failure. We are drowning under the swirling waters of life. Symptoms include a constant sense of anxiety, a constant sense of lethargy, a slow estrangement from family and friends, non-specific fears and a general sense of being weary. There are also spiritual manifestations which may have far greater consequences. Spiritual symptoms of the fog of life include a waning interest in Biblical studies including a decrease in Bible class and worship attendance as well as a decrease in involvement of the social activities of the church family. There is a deepening divide between the spirit and the flesh with the affairs of the flesh taking priority. Sometimes the engulfed Christian may jettison all relationship with the church as he turns more and more of his emotional resources to fight the immediate battle of life.
Ultimately the fog of life engulfs, clouds and hides the most basic mission of the Christian which is to fear God and keep his commandments” (Ecclesiastes 12:13; Proverbs 1:7). It is this last symptom that must be fought at all costs for the end is destruction.
Christians should remember that all of life brings challenges and obstacles. Life has not been easy since Eden. Nevertheless, we have a powerful need to remain focused on the most important task we face which is to be faithful to our Lord who is our salvation.
It is said that persons facing terminal illness gain a certain clarity in life. Suddenly, the things that are truly important rise through the gloom and present themselves as tasks to be completed with fervor. Building and rebuilding family relationships, deepening spousal links and preparing for the appointed meeting with God (2 Samuel 14:14; Job 14:5; Ecclesiastes 3:20; Hebrews 9:27) all take on new importance when faced with the end of life. It is tragic that such understanding comes so late and in such horrible circumstances.
Let us determine now to clear the fog of life, identify truly important needs and begin to address them. The world will continue on, moving faster and faster. We may feel that we are being left behind but instead we are winning the most important battles of the day. There is nothing more important that winning heaven and taking your family with you. Your wealth and reputation will not follow you beyond the grave but your good works will. Stop now and do the important things. Everything else will take care of itself.
