This post may spark some pushback, but let’s shoot for an open discussion, either on Facebook or the blog. And if not a discussion, then some honest introspection and prayer.
I understand how many Christians have genuine concerns for our changing culture, where we’ve abandoned the Judeo/Christian ethic. I share that. But perhaps we should tweak our attitudes in how we respond. A friend on FB recently mentioned a post on spiritual matters that was deleted by the FB “Powers That Be.” A flood of similar complaints followed on that thread. A lot of whining, frankly, and on a multitude of similar posts, but allow me to suggest that FB is merely the tip of the iceberg. Fears of COVID-19 conspiracies, government action trying to shut down churches. Federal support of Planned Parenthood. Yeah, the list could fill up this entire post.
More than the issues, I most care about how attitudes, how we respond. I often hear a note of complaint. Of whining. Of being helpless victims. Of being ignored. Of anger. Of relying on the political process to bring about spiritual restoration. And the situation isn’t helped by the negative complaints from cable news, on both sides of the aisle. CNN complains about conservatives. Fox complains about liberals. Their negative tone reinforces our fears.
Why my care? These attitudes leave God out of the equation. Whining and complaining are inappropriate when followers of Jesus know that in the end, God wins. If we’ve read the last page of the book, we need not complain about the drama that comes before the resolution. Here’s a new tack on Unconventional. Please read the extensive scriptures below slowly, carefully, and through the lens of your attitude toward people persecuting or hassling or even killing Christians.
“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed…if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name” (1 Peter 4:12-16).
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything” Philippians 4:7, NLT).
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose… If God is for us, who can be against us?...Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?...No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Romans 8:28, 31, 35, 37, but please read 29-39).
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance” (James 1:2-3).
Two suggestions for dealing with hard times. First, acknowledge that following Jesus often brings persecution, and the hassles show we’re not like the world. Do what you can on the political world, but rest easy and rely to get done what he desires. No politician, no media, no FB friends can get between God and us.
Second, be confidant—but not arrogant. Be loving—not hateful. Be gracious—not angry. Be logical—not emotional. Be joyful—not complaining or whining. After all, God wins.
Kick Starting the Application
How do you typically react to people mocking or ignoring or attacking your faith in Jesus? Do you tend to rely most on politics or God? How can you improve your reliance on God and lessen your complaining?