Why is it still so difficult for people to overcome prejudice?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: In the age of knowledge and education, why is it still so difficult for people to overcome prejudice? – P.S.
A: Prejudice is measured by computing the distance between our own biased opinions and the real truth. By nature, the human mind possesses biased thinking that perpetuates. Despite our improved educational system, our prejudices have grown, not diminished — so we can conclude that education is not the cure.
Prejudice is a form of robbery, for it robs its victim of a fair trial in the court of reason. It is also a murderer because it kills the opportunity of advancement for those who are its prey. We are quick to denounce that which we do not understand or know or experience. If we would put ourselves in the place of other people, understanding their background, sensing their problems, sympathizing with their weaknesses, it would do society a great favor.
How can we conquer prejudice? By being transformed by the power of God. Only then can we begin to look at others through the eyes of God and see them as He sees them. Only then does God’s love begin to take root in our hearts, pushing out the hate and indifference that resides there.
We see this kind of transformation in the story of Saul of Tarsus, once one of the most prejudiced men of his day. But when the Lord overcame Saul and he submitted to Christ, he later wrote as the Apostle Paul, “The love of God has been poured out in our hearts” (Romans 5:5, NKJV). What the logic of Greece could not do for Saul, the grace of God did.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2024 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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