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Learned Behavior, Overcoming Biases, Part 1 (Admit we Have Them)

Leaving them at the Foot of the Cross

Let's begin this series by clearly stating the first thing we must do when it comes to overcoming biases. Billy Graham's quote clearly identifies the first step, which is to admit we have them. Let's recap the words of Evangelist Billy Graham by sharing that powerful quote again:

"The first step toward overcoming our biases is to admit we have them, and then to lay them at the foot of the Cross, where all human distinctions are leveled." Evangelist Billy Graham

Step 1: Admit we Have Them

I need to make it clear by first stating that there isn't a person on the face of God's green earth that doesn't experience biases in one way or another. Since we all possess them, we must confront them by looking beyond our personal and cultural needs and our tendecies and temptations to focus solely on self-preservation. When life is all about Me... Myself... and Mines..., that's evidence of bias. 

Today, let's admit we all have them. If we can do that, we are all taking steps in the right direction. Today, I'm going to share with you four things that come with admiting we all have this problem. Admitting this problem coupled with our ability to practice the below steps will lead us to the cross: 

  1. Practice Humility - Be able to admit to yourself and others when you are wrong. Take responsibility for your actions. 
  2. Seek Forgiveness - Ask God to forgive you for any biases you hold against others in your heart. 
  3. Examine Core Motivating Factors - Don't just admit you have a problem and ask God for forgiveness, take an additional step by learning the core motivating factors/triggers that set you off.
  4. Be Empowered by God's Grace - God's forgiveness is available to anyone willing to admit they are wrong; even those you hold certain biases against.

We will complete this series by closely examining the following:

  • Admitting we all have biases (Today's Devotional)
  • Leaving those biases at the Cross
  • Living a resurrected life

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