When you use online social media , like Facebook ,one will often read something that you will be offended by or feel attacked due to your beliefs. Often though it is more laughable than offensive because often the statements against God , Jesus or the Christian faith are such gross misrepresentations that you can't take it serious. However at the same time they have to be taken serious.
Using what Peter tells us to always be ready to give a defense for the hope that is within us , for me personally, when I have engaged in a discussion online , it just does appeal to me. Often what you write does not come off as clear or can be worded in a way that sounds angry or sarcastic. For many it comes easy , as I have read some who have engaged in a excellent discussion/debate . I prefer the more personal , face to face approach.
However if its something so over the top , I will engage the comment . One rule of engagement before posting that is essential , read it out loud before sending it. What one writes on a comment section on a blog or Facebook will be in the cyber world for all to see.Sometimes when you read it out loud and verbalize it , you can tell if it makes sense and sounds right. That is my method. The second thing is if the person or persons you have engaged make it personal or begin to insult , disengage. Nothing can be gained .
Ultimately God should be glorified in what you write . Present the gospel without be ashamed and trust the Holy Spirit will take what was said and use it to bring about repentance and faith. I used to argue and want to win for the sake of winning . Now I realize that was sinful and smacked of one full of pride. All one wants to really do is present Jesus Christ , defend the faith with honesty and give God the glory.
1 comment:
If we're honest,there's a sense of your pride being hurt because often your intelligence is called into question. You know you've heard, "because everyone knows that, the great god, science has proved there is no such thing. So, how could an intelligent thinking human being suggest otherwise? Were you dropped on your head as a baby?" or words to that affect.
It is hard to stay calm, during a debate about your personal beliefs. Sometimes, you get upset because they're insulting your Lord. However, he's taught us to always be prepared to give an answer... with LOVE. Always difficult for me because I can't believe any intelligent human being can deny what they see in Creation, and the law that the Lord has written on their hearts, and still have time to sleep at night. I think it would take a lot of time and effort. That's when our sinful natures come in handy.
Another hard thing for me is to remember that other people want to be heard,as well. Everyone wants their opinions valued. Three years ago, I had a non-talking trach in for 2 1/2 days (while I was awake). I remember being told that my voice box was clear, no sign of cancer. I must never take for granted what God returned to me because He didn't have to.
In my work, as a hairdresser, I'm privileged to have a mission field come to me. It's an honour to meet, speak to and beautify the amazing clients that I have. I thank God for them, every day. I pray that I've impacted their lives, as much as they have mine. Love you, Mrs Reg
Post a Comment