Those good things I see advertised online are often too good to be true. Yet there are times I succumb to their allure and order something. Usually something I really don’t need. And then the doubting begins. Was this a scam? Will it be cheap material? I become skeptical about my purchase.

I think healthy skepticism is a good thing. It often adds a layer of protection, prompting us to think something through. The healthy skeptic questions claims and withholds judgment until they’ve seen good evidence.

Unless.

Unless we let that attitude lead to cynicism. While the skeptic searches for truth, the cynic has already decided what truth is.

I was jolted by the idea of cynicism while interviewing Chuck Swindoll at a large gathering. Before I could quiz this great pastor and spiritual leader, he asked me, “Ron, how do you keep from becoming cynical?” To say I was surprised by this question would be an understatement. As best I can remember, I said it took continual grounding in God and His Word … an ongoing relationship with Jesus. At least I hope that is what I said.

I’ve thought about that a lot. I recently viewed a video of Dr. Swindoll addressing students at Dallas Theological Seminary on the topic “The Sinister Sin of Cynicism.” Swindoll says the cynic looks at life scornfully, negatively, calculatingly. He is marked by contemptuous mockery, pessimism, and arrogance. Ouch.

Sometimes we become so familiar with God’s Word we think we know all there is to know. Passages we read again and again lose their impact on our heart and life. Instead of seeking God’s truth for us today, we simply read it, write it, dissect it, and move on.

We become cynical. And that has great impact on those around us. Christian writer William Arthur Ward nails it in this area:

“Every person has the power to make others happy. Some do it simply by entering a room, others by leaving the room. Some individuals leave trails of gloom; others, trails of joy. Some leave trails of hate and bitterness; others, trails of love and harmony. Some leave trails of cynicism and pessimism; others, trails of faith and optimism. Some leave trails of criticism and resignation; others, trails of gratitude and hope. What kind of trails do you leave?”

Chuck Swindoll talks about the value of having a spiritual mentor who helps us stay grounded. Paul was that for Timothy. After reminding Timothy that physical training is good, he says that training for godliness is better. Then Paul writes,

Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.

1 Timothy 4:16 NLT

Don’t let skepticism turn into cynicism. You will miss the joy God intends for you in fellowship with Him. Others will be affected by your life. William Ward says it is your choice.

“We can start each day with apprehension, or anticipation; cynicism, or optimism; apathy, or adventure.”

What will it be for you?