I have noticed that people who spend most of their time in isolation tend to come up with more eccentric ideas than those who are constantly in the company of their peers. Contrary to what one may expect, being with other people tends to make us want to be like them, rather than develop our own individuality. Too often, children and adults alike are pressured into doing things they know are not best or are even wrong. These people place too much importance on the opinions of others.
On the other hand, people who live in an ideological bubble, who keep themselves removed from the world, will sometimes become imbalanced in their thinking. They may take unsupportable positions on issues, or they may focus on one area of their life or ministry at the expense of others. These people place too much importance on their own opinions.
How do we find a proper balance? We have to constantly be analyzing the ideas, opinions, theories, and behaviors to which we are exposed; we need to limit the amount of floor time we allow falsehood. Just as a plant can't grow in a dark room, a truth-starved soul will wither. It is also important to share our own ideas with other people so that when we are wrong they can tell us. Ultimately, all our thoughts must be tried against the Bible. Let us approach it with a mind free of worldly presuppositions, the fear of man, and the pride of the flesh.
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