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Critical Thinking and a Confused Society

Critical Thinking and a Confused Society

Every day, I am amazed at how often contradictory and conflated ideas are presented that go unchallenged in our society. For instance, how a clear truth can be twisted into a lie —

Truth: As eloquently affirmed in the U.S. Declaration of Independence, all humans are created equal. As such, each person has equal value, equal moral worth, and equal human rights. But this truth gets distorted…

Lie: All humans are equal in ability. This lie is manifested in hostility toward decision-making based on objective differences.

Here’s another one:

Truth: Affirmed in the U.S. Bill of Rights, we have freedom of conscience. We are free to believe anything we want to believe and should not be coerced by others to believe as they do. However, this truth also gets twisted …

Lie: All beliefs are equally valid or healthy. They are not! In fact, some beliefs are downright harmful. Yes — people are still free to believe them, but that does not make the beliefs valid.

These two lies have recently begun to be expressed with the sentiment “my truth” and “your truth” — the idea that everyone has their own version of truth and that all versions are equally valid. Moreover, we’re told that we don’t have the right to question anyone else’s version of “their truth.”

This is nothing more than a great fraud designed to get thinking people to be silent even when injurious and destructive ideas and practices are promoted.

Truth is how reality works. It is not based on opinion or a perception or a mere belief; truth is simply the way things are. Perhaps some get confused because they fail to see the difference between the “true” experience or perception of a person and the truth itself. For instance, it might be true that a person believes cigarette smoke helps their lungs work better, but it is not true that cigarette smoke actually helps their lungs work better. Many people fail to make this distinction and will say, “Who are you to judge? That is their truth.”

This deeply confused thinking is occurring more often, because people have lost the reality-based (truth) understanding of God’s law as design law. These are the laws upon which reality is built to operate — the laws of physics, health, love, freedom, etc. When we reject the reality (truth) that God’s laws are design laws and accept the lie that they are mere rules no different functionally than the ones that humans make up, rules that require enforcement by a ruling authority, then we are vulnerable to the idea that all perspectives and beliefs are equally valid. Why? Because there is no objective reality; it is all arbitrary opinion.

A Case Study

One would expect that physicians would be insulated from falling into this trap, given that their profession requires they understand the laws of health and seek to harmonize people with these design protocols. Unfortunately, this doesn’t seem to be the case. And when thought leaders begin practicing this distorted thinking process themselves, the corruption in our society only snowballs.

Last week, I attended a lecture by a leading world expert on medical marijuana research. I attended because I wanted to learn about the latest scientific research in this field. It was a three-hour symposium, but, sadly, the event had only a few minutes of actual science presented. And much of what was presented was contradictory and shallow.

For instance, not once during the lecture were the laws of health brought up — the idea that, while states can pass laws to make such substances legal, passing such laws doesn’t make them healthy. These substances are either healthy for the human body or they are not; our job as scientists is to examine the evidence and see what reality actually reveals.

For instance, there is no evidence that smoking or consuming marijuana is beneficial for mental health problems. While there is some evidence that CBD oil may have some benefit, CBD oil is not marijuana any more than nicotine is tobacco. CBD oil is one of 146 psychoactive compounds found in marijuana, but it is also found in hemp. It provides no mood altering high.

On the contrary, multiple studies show that marijuana use actually increases the risk of psychosis; increases anxiety; damages the brain’s memory circuits; worsens depression and bipolar disorder; increases inattention; decreases motivation and coordination; and even lowers IQ. Yet despite the unequivocal evidence that marijuana plays no role in treating psychiatric disorders, data reveals that the vast majority of medical certificates provided by doctors to patients for using medicinal marijuana are not for the few conditions for which it may have some benefit, but rather for mental health problems that it worsens!

In Massachusetts, where medical marijuana is legal, 90 percent of those receiving certificates from doctors for medical use do not have one of the eight allowable medical conditions. So who is getting the certificates?

Number of Certificates

  • ALS 11
  • Parkinson’s Disease 41
  • Glaucomas 227
  • HIV/AIDS 265
  • Crohn’s 276
  • Multiple Sclerosis 347
  • Hepatitis C 403
  • Cancer 756
  • Other conditions (mostly psychiatric) 22,130

Why do doctors write these certificates for mental health disorders when the evidence demonstrates it will only worsen the condition? The patient reports it helps them — it is their “truth” and who is the physician to disagree.

During the symposium, it was noted that in Colorado, deaths by opiate overdose have decreased ever since medical marijuana was legalized. It was suggested this was due to people with chronic pain conditions needing less prescription pain meds, as marijuana reduces pain perception. However, no evidence was presented to support this conjecture. Moreover, the vast majority of people who overdose on opiates are not patients with chronic pain receiving prescription pain medication from their physician, but those with opiate addiction who are using illegal drugs. However, this was also never discussed.

It was also pointed out that in states in which medical marijuana has been legalized, Medicaid costs for opiate medications have gone down. It was suggested that legalizing marijuana, therefore, could lower healthcare costs. But it was not pointed out that the reduction in Medicaid costs for pain management was due to the fact that states don’t pay for medical marijuana; thus, the cost was simply shifted to the individual patient to purchase his or her own marijuana. So, the reality is that there is no evidence that healthcare costs would actually be reduced.

But worse, no evidence was presented on the potential health problems from the chronic smoking of the marijuana plant, such as whether cancers and lung disease could increase.

The presentation went back and forth between social and medical issues, such as legalization and health benefits, but these are two separate issues. For instance, everyone today knows that there are no health benefits from tobacco smoke, yet society has decided to keep tobacco as a legal substance available to adults. Two separate issues that are clearly understood when it comes to tobacco, but with marijuana, such clarity is lacking.

Many people are smoking marijuana, falsely believing it is not harmful and has no health risks. No matter how much they believe they are being helped, it doesn’t mean they are.

Yes, every person is free to believe what they want, but please don’t confuse that truth with the lie that all beliefs are equally healthy; they are not! The challenge for each of us is to develop, by practice, the ability to discern the true from the false (Hebrews 5:14).


REFERENCES:

Lucatch, A. et al. Cannabis and Mood Disorders, Current Addiction Reports, September 2018, Volume 5, Issue 3, pp 336–345.

Lev-Ran, S. et al., The association between cannabis use and depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal studies, Psychological Medicine Volume 44, Issue 4 March 2014 , pp. 797-810

Pacek, R. et al., The bidirectional relationships between alcohol, cannabis, co-occurring alcohol and cannabis use disorders with major depressive disorder: Results from a national sample Journal of Affective Disorders, Volume 148, Issues 2–3, June 2013, Pages 188-195

Feingold, D., et al., Cannabis use and the course and outcome of major depressive disorder: A population based longitudinal study, Psychiatry Research, Volume 251, May 2017, Pages 225-234.

Bally, N., et al., Cannabis use and first manic episode, Journal of Affective Disorders, Volume 165, 20 August 2014, Pages 103-108.

Lev-Ran, S. et al., Bipolar disorder and co-occurring cannabis use disorders: Characteristics, co-morbidities and clinical correlates Psychiatry Research Volume 209, Issue 3, 30 October 2013, Pages 459-465.

Crippa, J. et al., Cannabis and anxiety: a critical review of the evidence, Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, Volume24, Issue7, October 2009, Pages 515-523.

Hser, Y., et al., Reductions in cannabis use are associated with improvements in anxiety, depression, and sleep quality, but not quality of life, Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Volume 81, October 2017, Pages 53-58.

Wilkinson, S.  et al., Marijuana Use is Associated with Worse Outcomes in Symptom Severity and Violent Behavior in Patients with PTSD, J Clin Psychiatry. 2015 Sep; 76(9): 1174–1180.

Steenkamp, M. et al., Marijuana and other cannabinoids as a treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder: A literature review, Depression and Anxiety, Volume34, Issue3, March 2017, Pages 207-216.

Scott, C. et al., Association of Cannabis With Cognitive Functioning in Adolescents and Young Adults A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, JAMA Psychiatry. 2018;75(6):585-595.

Meier, M. et al., Persistent cannabis users show neuropsychological decline from childhood to midlife, PNAS October 2, 2012 109 (40) E2657-E2664.

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I have found your Bible study class lectures to be very inspiring and useful as I prepare to teach class every other week. I subscribe to the podcast and download your notes on the weeks I teach. The audio and notes are such a great help in preparing. My own understanding of God’s character has grown as I teach the class. Commendations on the thought-provoking and well-prepared material Come and Reason provides. Personally, I get excited by the tie you make between the spiritual and mental/physical domains.

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It was very touching to hear the testimony of your class share how viewing God’s true character has changed their lives. My feelings are the same – there is so much freedom in knowing that God LOVES me – regardless of my… just, REGARDLESS! I’m still blown away by the true gospel, the fact that God is not ready to strike us when we fail. He is not arbitrary. He simply loves us and warns of the natural consequences because He can’t stand to see us suffer. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS GOD!!!

Ceil V.,  UT, USA

 

Testimony 20

I just wanted to personally thank you for your teachings and insight into scripture. I came across your website via my cousin who suggested I look into “Healing the Mind” information. My youngest daughter has been struggling over the last couple of years and it all came to a head this spring. When I started listening to the “Healing the Mind” lectures my own life began to be transformed. I began sharing with all my daughters the concepts you laid out so clearly. I ordered your book and soaked it up. I just want to say “Thank You!” My walk with the Lord has been refreshed and renewed. Your obedience to the Lord is a blessing to so many.

R. K., Anderson, SC, USA

 

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[This ministry is the] biggest blessing I have ever received! Your DVDs and lessons could not have come at a better time in my life. I have experienced in the past year many difficulties that, if it wasn’t for this wonderful view of God that I have discovered through this ministry, I would not have been able to respond in love and forgiveness. My heart is being transformed everyday by the Calvary-looking God you teach. Hallelujah!! I have tears in my eyes as I write, because my life has taken a complete turn from where I was heading.

I am from Central America. Most of my family is scattered in different parts of the world and all have the same view of God that I had growing up; a distant, exacting, and ready-to-punish-us-with-tragedy type of God. So, I have been translating lessons for my family and, to my surprise, they have also been sharing them with others! I can already see the difference. My brother has often said, “Thank you for sharing, I have never heard it this way!” My other family members are taking an amazing turn from a message of “repent or burn” towards a loving God, pleading to us that we won’t reject him because he loves us eternally.

Bless you for all you do.

Sofia S., Ashfield, MA, USA

 

Testimony 70

I have been watching you for many years and have learned to love God with all my heart. I was raised by a loving Christian mother that had been lied to about who God really was, so our religious upbringing was hell fire and damnation. As soon as I was old enough and moved out, I not only left the church, I ran as fast as I could to get away from it. Sad to say, it wasn’t until the past couple of years that I learned and understand who my Father really is and how much He loves me. I understand God’s Design Laws (which make sense) and when I’m teaching my church Bible study class, I’m able to really put to use the things I’ve been learning and Holy Spirit is leading. Thank you for introducing me to my Father of true, pure love. Everyday with Him is new and exciting. One thing that breaks my heart is that I didn’t know Him sooner. God Bless you and your ministry!

Judy Phelps, Reno, NV, USA

Testimony 65

I have been tuning into your weekly study classes for a while now and wanted express my appreciation for the teachings that ha been a huge blessing in opening up the true message of the word. Viewing scripture under an imposed law theory always, without fail, raised more questions, concerns, and conflicting scripture interpretations that were discouraging at the very least. Looking at scripture through the design law lens has brought more truth to light for me personally and an understanding of our Heavenly Father that places Him “above all others,” where I am now more than thrilled to witness and serve Him.  I “stumbled” across this ministry a year or so ago and would only watch a few minutes at a time. But the more I listened and the longer I paid attention, the more my spiritual eyes were opened to the ever present truths of scripture. The comprehension of the great controversy and it’s origin by the lies perpetrated and perpetuated throughout the Bible on the attack of God’s character and government is truly priceless. Keep up the Good Work! Your servanthood is desperately needed in such a time as this!

Jeff D., Reading, MA, USA

 

Testimony 49

I came into the church at 21, but that is as far as it went. I was so confused about what love is. I couldn’t find it in the bible, because I am not a person that can read between the lines. I have no logic. I have read many, many books; trying to figure out the crux of the matter. They were helpful, but something was still missing. I have become very frustrated to the point of crying out to God, “Where can I go?”  I needed some basics.

I found two books, written by Timothy Jennings, MD, to be very helpful. God showed me that I had lived my whole life in fear. I didn’t even see it. Now, I do. God is so good.  I discovered the “The Remedy”  Dr. Jennings new book, “The God-Shaped Heart!” Oh, I was so excited, I purchased them right away.

I can get rid of most of my books, because “The Remedy” brings the Love of God out so clearly, even I can’t miss it. Now, I want to sit and read my Bible. Wow, what a revelation! It is just simply Awesome! I am so grateful to Jehovah Almighty for hearing my prayer for more understanding! I am so encouraged!

Jackie S.

 

Testimony 32

The message [of Come And Reason Ministries is] for all Christians (and those who may become Christians) and not just Adventists or any other group. It is difficult to imagine why any [anyone] with intellectual and spiritual honesty could find fault with the way you explained the healing substitution concepts and the truth about God’s character, though I know some will reject and criticize. On behalf of those in our group near Tacoma, WA, thank you and your staff for all of the hard work and for sharing the Gospel in this manner. God’s message of healing love will be carried to the whole world and then Jesus will come – He promised it.

Terry U., Tacoma, WA, USA

 

Testimony 75

Thank you so much for everything you do! Because of all these truths, I’m excited to be with Jesus! I always pray everyday, “COME TODAY, JESUS.” Before finding C&R, I was always praying for delays, “NOT TODAY OH GOD. I AM NOT READY.” I just need to share more, talk more bout this truth, so everybody will be excited for Jesus.

J C Shin

Testimony 34

I was introduced to Come and Reason Ministries by accident, via a passing comment made in a bible study class we were visiting. I checked this website out and my life was changed. The understanding of the truth of God’s character, and how we apply it, is so right. The tricky part is consistently applying which “lens” to look through. As I began to understand, I started sharing the basics of this understanding with a discussion group I was leading and, suddenly, a lot of things started to make sense that never used to. At the same time, I enjoyed an amazing opportunity. I was able to conduct a full bible study at WORK! What an amazing experience! It is such a joy to share the truth about God and to share how it all fits in the war between God and Satan. So many people benefit when we have a correct understanding about how God works and who He really is! Thank you for this transformational understanding. Keep up the good work! God Bless you!

Tony P., CA, USA

 

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Testimony 60

Just watched watched lesson 10 in the 1st quarter 2021 bible study classs on Isaiah. I want to thank you for your intellectual spirituality; it’s not an oxymoron! From the point of view of a teacher I also enjoy seeing how much personal pleasure you clearly take in not just tasting, but feasting on God’s word – it reminds me of Jeremiah not being able to hold it in! It makes me smile that your cup is so full and overflowing that you make it to Tuesday’s lesson (on a good day). It just goes to show the richness of God’s Word.

God bless the Come and Reason Team from our church here in Great Britain.

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Testimony 72

I am blown away by the truth that you present. God’s Design Law makes so much sense! You have validated my impression that, if God is love, He would not kill those who don’t want to know him. If God gives us choice, then how can He destroy us if our choice is not to follow him. Thank you for opening my eyes and heart to the pure love of God seen through Jesus. The love I now have for Jesus is deeper and free from condemnation. My heart has been opened to love others as Jesus loves me. May God continue to bless your God-given insight into His word and your ministry. The truth has set me free!

H. Miller, Centereach, NY

Testimony 27

Your teachings about our heavenly Father have changed my life. Thank you sooooooo very very much! I know He’s doing some serious healing in my heart and life and I look forward to each new day to learn something new about Him and to just hear you speak about Him. Thank you, forever.

Nancy S.