A Worldview for Reading and Meditation

Philosophers have said that if we are to live effectively and securely in this world, then we must have a worldview of things—a cosmic framework in which to live, think, and work. The Germans call it weltanschauung—the big picture. When we have a cosmic framework, it gives a sense of validity and meaning to all we do. It makes us feel we are a part of a universal purpose. Many modern thinkers believe that the reason there is so much insecurity in the hearts of men and women is that there is a breakdown of this world frame of reference. One writer says: “Modern man is homesick. He is going on a hand-to-mouth existence day by day, and what he does and thinks does not seem to be related to the Whole. This has made life empty and jittery because it is insecure.”

The Chinese have a saying: “In a broken nest there are no whole eggs.” The nest, the world in which we live and think and work, has been broken up by sin, and therefore our central unity has gone. This can be seen on a small scale when the home is broken. Nearly all the children in reform schools come from broken homes. Why? The framework in which they have lived has broken down and has left them inwardly disrupted and confused. As a consequence, morals break down.

Can you see now why Jesus taught us to have a worldview of things? With our eyes focused on the kingdom, we know that at the heart of things there is utter security.

Further Study

Ps 24:1-10; 2Ch 20:6; 1Tim 1:17; Rv 19:6

What picture does the psalmist give us?

What is his exhortation?