“These people!” I fumed after reading yet another rant on Facebook. “Why is it so hard to just be kind?” In my anger I hammered out the perfect blog post to address the problem. To share my frustration at the anger and self-righteous rants all over social media right now. I felt compelled to speak out. Set everybody straight.
Until I realized that I was only adding to this unholy fire. My words were targeted towards those who have gotten so wrapped up in this debate that they have lost perspective.
Kind of like me in that moment. Ouch.
Somehow we have come to a place where virtue-signaling has replaced actual virtue. Where shouting our opinions has replaced speaking God’s truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Where winning an argument is more important than winning the prize of the upward call in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).
So I thanked God for pointing out my hypocrisy, closed out my rebuttal and opened an email from a friend full of hilarious memes and cartoons about life with Covid. They were just silly, not pointed or snarky, and in laughing at them I realized how much better I felt.
Does this hurting world really need more finger-pointing? More cutting sarcasm and self-righteous rants?
Nope.
Does it need more gentleness? More acceptance and understanding? More laughter?
Yup.
James 3:13 says, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.”
Wisdom is demonstrated by humility – not hubris. And oh, how I want to be wise!
If we really want to make a change in this world, let’s make our words a refuge for the weary and hurting. Instead of signing them up for our causes, let’s take a deep breath, share an encouragement and smile behind our masks.
The world has enough warriors right now. But precious few peacemakers.
A View of the Lake 
Thanks for your blog!!!!!
It’s funny because I just had this conversation with someone. I struggle a bit, and probably really need to seek the Lord for clarity on this subject.
I have actually been encouraged by those who are speaking up. I have sensed this is the year of the voice. Where people were going to find their voice and use it. I totally agree that our words should be humble and seasoned with salt. Also, there should be guards on our tongues.
I however think it’s time for people to take a stand., to know what they believe and be willing to stand for something!!!! There is so much going on behind the scenes that I believe happened because we were complacent and comfortable.
I had a vision/dream years ago where I was standing on a basketball court in front of all my peers. I had to decide what side of the line I stood on, what I believed in front of all my peers.
I think that is getting closer.
You have to stand for something or we will fall for anything.
I also think of that verse….. you say peace peace when there is no peace. We can be peace keepers or peace makers. Peace keepers will do anything to keep the peace. Peace makers, I believe are willing to be uncomfortable and have hard conversation and be willing to be wrong, and walk in humility. But peace comes after effort has been made.
I think we all have a role. We all are gifted differently and play a different position. 🙂
I usually am more of a rule follower! Tow the line…… however…….. with what is going on….. I have this unction in me.
Anyway, your message is important and timely, and merited. But on the flip side I am also rejoicing that we are having more discussions and people are starting to have opinions and get involved.
Anyway! Thanks for the wisdom and being willing to share it!!!! ❤️
LikeLike
Again, you have written & expressed some excellent thoughts during this time of uncertainty and unrest & yet, it is a time of opportunity! Thank you my friend for sharing your wisdom & your heart.
Colleen Sanden cmsanden@verizon.net
>
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are absolutely correct. Thanks for the gentle nudge.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ah, wise words, my friend! Being a light in the darkness is hard work, but that’s what we’re here to do. Blessings to you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Pingback: What I Almost Said | A View of the Lake – Reformed faith salsa style
Pingback: This Week’s Sermon: Psalm 114 by Elder Mike Allen – GracePoint Community Church