Evan Vucci/AP
What happens to a society when love and grace are replaced by anger and wrath? This is a question that should pierce our hearts and prompt deep reflection, for the answer is undeniably clear: it leads to violence. And VIOLENCE IS NEVER THE ANSWER.
Yet this week, I find myself dumbfounded by the number of social media posts cheering for more of it. The recent events surrounding former President Trump have only intensified this unrest, stirring emotions out of control. Regardless of where you stand politically—whether you support Trump or Biden or have strong feelings in either direction—our Christian calling remains the same. We are not called to fan the flames of hatred, engage in wrath, or incite uprisings. Instead, we are called to practice humility, engage in much prayer, and strive to live peaceably with all people, as the Holy Bible instructs us.
Yet, I've observed how some leaders, both within our communities and on social media, are stirring uncontrollable emotions, subtly (in some cases, overtly) encouraging people to do wrong. We must be wary of those in positions of influence—whether they are preachers, politicians, news media figures, or even friends—who may encourage or validate feelings of hatred, wrath, or malice. Rather than being swept up in this negativity, we must critically assess these influences and remain steadfast in our commitment to peace.
In contrast to today's turbulent environment, the Holy Scriptures offer timeless examples of God's faithful servants enduring oppressive governments without succumbing to rebellion or outrage. Take Daniel, for instance. He lived under the rule of several tyrannical kings who oppressed and killed their people. Yet, Daniel's wisdom and integrity earned him honor and respect. Daniel never called out for the Hebrew people to fight. Rather than inciting violence, Daniel exemplified prayer, respect, and calm. Even amidst perilous circumstances, his steadfast faith and righteous conduct demonstrate that divine favor can be achieved through a life of righteousness, no matter how challenging the political landscape.
Similarly, the Apostle Paul provides another profound example. Once a zealous man whose passions drove him to persecute and kill thousands, Paul's encounter with Christ Jesus transformed his perspective, demeanor, and actions. As a new follower of Christ, he faced relentless persecution, but Paul remained calm and peaceful. Rather than advocating for rebellion, he urged others to live peacefully and kindly, even toward their enemies. In Romans 12:18, Paul told the Christians in Rome (who were under severe persecution): "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." This enduring message continues to underscore our true calling to peace in 2024, remaining relevant and powerful across all times and circumstances.
Today, we must be vigilant against influences that stir up hatred or provoke us to anger, whether they come from the pulpit, government, television and social media, or even our friends. Such voices can easily divert us from the heart of God for our lives. Our Lord and Saviour, when He walked this Earth, taught and exemplified the Christian motto: "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This directive is not merely an idealistic vision but a practical guide for how we should live our daily lives, even under governments we don't support.
Living as Christ did involves us speaking blessings to those who curse us, actively seeking to do good to those who harbor ill will towards us, and dedicating time in prayer for those who mistreat and persecute us. By embracing these practices, we anchor ourselves in grace and peace, making us less likely to react with anger and more inclined to respond with love. This approach helps us to resist impulsive emotional reactions and fosters a more appropriate gracious response.
Imagine the wonderful impact we could make in our communities if we truly lived out these fundamentals. Instead of contributing to division, we could become servants of reconciliation. Rather than spreading hatred, we could nurture an atmosphere of love and peace. This is the practical outworking of our faith in Christ each day. It begins with small acts of kindness, a gentle word, a prayer for those who hurt us, and a gracious attitude toward everyone we encounter. Though these actions may seem minor, they hold the potential to spark meaningful, positive change in our world.
As we face these challenging times, let us commit to living and speaking as our Lord Jesus Christ did. Let us choose words of blessing over cursing, actions of kindness over wrath, and prayers of intercession over thoughts of vengeance. By doing so, we not only align ourselves with the heart of the gospel but also become ministers of peace in a world troubled by many conflicts. Living out Christ's powerful teachings enables us to fulfill God's calling and contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate world.
RETURN TO ALL BLOGS
Yet this week, I find myself dumbfounded by the number of social media posts cheering for more of it. The recent events surrounding former President Trump have only intensified this unrest, stirring emotions out of control. Regardless of where you stand politically—whether you support Trump or Biden or have strong feelings in either direction—our Christian calling remains the same. We are not called to fan the flames of hatred, engage in wrath, or incite uprisings. Instead, we are called to practice humility, engage in much prayer, and strive to live peaceably with all people, as the Holy Bible instructs us.
Yet, I've observed how some leaders, both within our communities and on social media, are stirring uncontrollable emotions, subtly (in some cases, overtly) encouraging people to do wrong. We must be wary of those in positions of influence—whether they are preachers, politicians, news media figures, or even friends—who may encourage or validate feelings of hatred, wrath, or malice. Rather than being swept up in this negativity, we must critically assess these influences and remain steadfast in our commitment to peace.
In contrast to today's turbulent environment, the Holy Scriptures offer timeless examples of God's faithful servants enduring oppressive governments without succumbing to rebellion or outrage. Take Daniel, for instance. He lived under the rule of several tyrannical kings who oppressed and killed their people. Yet, Daniel's wisdom and integrity earned him honor and respect. Daniel never called out for the Hebrew people to fight. Rather than inciting violence, Daniel exemplified prayer, respect, and calm. Even amidst perilous circumstances, his steadfast faith and righteous conduct demonstrate that divine favor can be achieved through a life of righteousness, no matter how challenging the political landscape.
Similarly, the Apostle Paul provides another profound example. Once a zealous man whose passions drove him to persecute and kill thousands, Paul's encounter with Christ Jesus transformed his perspective, demeanor, and actions. As a new follower of Christ, he faced relentless persecution, but Paul remained calm and peaceful. Rather than advocating for rebellion, he urged others to live peacefully and kindly, even toward their enemies. In Romans 12:18, Paul told the Christians in Rome (who were under severe persecution): "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." This enduring message continues to underscore our true calling to peace in 2024, remaining relevant and powerful across all times and circumstances.
Today, we must be vigilant against influences that stir up hatred or provoke us to anger, whether they come from the pulpit, government, television and social media, or even our friends. Such voices can easily divert us from the heart of God for our lives. Our Lord and Saviour, when He walked this Earth, taught and exemplified the Christian motto: "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This directive is not merely an idealistic vision but a practical guide for how we should live our daily lives, even under governments we don't support.
Living as Christ did involves us speaking blessings to those who curse us, actively seeking to do good to those who harbor ill will towards us, and dedicating time in prayer for those who mistreat and persecute us. By embracing these practices, we anchor ourselves in grace and peace, making us less likely to react with anger and more inclined to respond with love. This approach helps us to resist impulsive emotional reactions and fosters a more appropriate gracious response.
Imagine the wonderful impact we could make in our communities if we truly lived out these fundamentals. Instead of contributing to division, we could become servants of reconciliation. Rather than spreading hatred, we could nurture an atmosphere of love and peace. This is the practical outworking of our faith in Christ each day. It begins with small acts of kindness, a gentle word, a prayer for those who hurt us, and a gracious attitude toward everyone we encounter. Though these actions may seem minor, they hold the potential to spark meaningful, positive change in our world.
As we face these challenging times, let us commit to living and speaking as our Lord Jesus Christ did. Let us choose words of blessing over cursing, actions of kindness over wrath, and prayers of intercession over thoughts of vengeance. By doing so, we not only align ourselves with the heart of the gospel but also become ministers of peace in a world troubled by many conflicts. Living out Christ's powerful teachings enables us to fulfill God's calling and contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate world.
RETURN TO ALL BLOGS
