How do we avoid being too skeptical and too gullible?

How do we avoid being too skeptical and too gullible?

Balancing skepticism and gullibility is a delicate task that requires a certain level of discernment. On the one hand, skepticism is important in order to critically evaluate information and protect ourselves from being deceived. On the other hand, gullibility can lead to a lack of trust and closed-mindedness.

What stands out to me in these kinds of gospel stories is that Jesus is presented as knowing how the Pharisees tend to be both skeptical and judgmental. Jesus calls this out but performs a miracle anyway, which leads the other members of the crowd into believing Him.

Maybe the key is being skeptical but postponing judgment. If we can critically evaluate what we see without hasting towards snap judgments, then we can find the sweet spot between skepticism and gullibility.

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Mark 2:1-12. Jesus immediately knew in his mind what they were thinking to themselves, so he said, “Why are you thinking such things in your hearts?”

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-013: JANUARY 13, 2023]