Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: ACT (05/05/22)
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TITLE: How Will They Know? | Previous Challenge Entry
By Marlene Custer
05/11/22 -
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She accepted her steaming drink from the barista, and listened as Jeanie asked, sympathetically, “What seems to be causing you to feel down?”
Taking a cautious sip, she began. “I want to keep up with my friends on Social Media, but there is so much hatred and animosity being shared. Even many that I thought were Christians are posting comments that are venomous and hate-filled. Political party affiliation, abortion, gay rights—both sides make strong statements. I don’t want to be a coward about sharing my faith, but I don’t necessarily want to be associated with some of the remarks I have seen posted. How will they know my stance as a Christian if I don’t say something?”
Krista leaned in and focused as Jeanie responded, “Jesus answered that question over 2000 years ago. The Apostle John recorded Jesus’ words to His disciples in the Book of John. Chapter 13, verse 35 declares, ‘By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.’”
Interrupting, Krista sat back and implored, “I know I should love everyone, but what does that look like?”
Adding a little more sweetener to her coffee, she looked at her mentor, as Jeanie replied, “First Corinthians 13 is our go-to for that answer. According to Paul, if you love, you will be kind, patient, not rude or easily angered. Love cares for the weak and needy, it does not delight in evil, but always protects. Do those making comments display these qualities? Do those speaking so loudly against abortion do anything to help the poor? When it comes to social media, often the best response is no response. It makes more sense to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to guard our hearts, and guide the thinking of those that are clearly in the wrong. And, I might add, it is often wise to not look at social media for a day or two, especially the posts that you know are controversial.”
“That is hard to do!”
Krista drained her cup as Jeanie acknowledged, “It is! But Jesus faced the same problems we face, tempted in every way, so He can sympathize with us. We can approach His Throne with confidence that if we ask for His help, He will give us the strength we need.”
Krista smiled as she touched Jeanie’s hand, “I feel so much better having shared with you. Please pray with me that I would keep the right focus.”
“Jesus, I love you and want to represent you well. Help me to love those around me just as Paul taught. Help me to always remember that my actions speak much louder than mere words. Thank you!”
NIV John 13:35, Hebrews 4:15-16
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