Timing is Everything
While I have no business pontificating in these crazy times, that hasn’t stopped me from trying. So, God’s sense of timing is as humbling as His sense of humor.
When friends I know, who know better, let their opinions loose on Facebook recently, I planned to share a few of my own. I’d show them how mean-spirited they were!
Counting the cost of our words
The good news is I paused before hitting the send button.
The better news I went to worship and heard a timely reminder – from Psalm 139 and Matthew 7:1-5.*
First, I took a little more personally the repercussions of a favorite psalm. What if God showed up at my door, and said, “Thanks for the request to search your heart, Barb. Here I am! – Ready to look at your anxious thoughts and offensive habits, attitudes and actions . . . before you fix your friends? ”
Not really, Lord.
Hence, hearing that sermon on me not judging, as so many political opinions fly about, sure seemed providential.
“Use judgment; don’t pass it,” the pastor urged.
Second, I sure can judge what others say, especially the opinions of others about their party’s standard bearers or platforms! But before I reply, let me remember the mercy and grace which God showed me, and commands of me. (Micah 6:8)
If I truly value human life at its weakest, let me remember to restrain my words, no matter how quickly they come, mindful words can be tools or weapons!
Don’t throw mud hoping to change people’s minds!
Nevertheless, be willing to wade into some mud to have a worthwhile conversation.**
God’s sense of timing and humor makes me see that informing myself is still a good use of time. For,
Politics is not the art of the possible. It consists in choosing between the disastrous and the unpalatable.-John Kenneth Galbraith
Lashing out will not get anyone’s agreement – mocking, condemning, smearing were never how Christ said His kingdom would come. Nor is sanctimonious judging!
We need sound judgment!
You and I, dear reader, are smack dab in places we could never have imagined!
Here are two articles that are showing me there are better ways to discuss hot button issues. I’d be interested what you think.
- Do Pro-Lifers Who Reject Trump Have Blood on Their Hands?
- The Moral Chasm on Abortion: When the Argument Breaks Down
Trust a grand 19th century English novelist to foresee the 2020 American political races:
An election is coming. Universal peace is declared, and the foxes have a sincere interest in prolonging the lives of the poultry. George Eliot
Register NOW and VOTE November 3, 2020
* Link to SREP Worship service – Worship is a good use of time.
** Here are two summaries of both Party PLATFORMS from Joe Carter on the Gospel Coalition: