Colossians 4:5-6 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
The horrific violence we’re witnessing in this country is provoking anger. The stories are diverse but the results are all too similar, people are being killed. An ‘us vs them’ polarization has taken hold of the country which is increasing social animosity. Lives are shattered, hearts are hardening, walls are growing, and doors are closing. Citizens are upset and demanding equity, justice, or even revenge.
But as believers Scripture tells us:
- Be slow to speak, swift to hear and slow to wrath.
- The wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
- Not to allow our anger to lead us to commit sinful actions.
- Cast your cares upon Him for He cares for you.
- Not to be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
- Vengeance belongs to the Lord.
Being a believer doesn’t mean we’ll solve, resolve, or stop all the wrongs in society. Nor will the justice system nullify the pain felt by the victims, their families, and the communities bloodied by these violent actions. However, as Kingdom citizens we are called to walk in the Spirit, in faith, and in wisdom. We are called to show what it looks like to live surrendered to Christ in the face of such violence. Our faith in God and our spiritual maturity demands we do this.
As believers, our response should be to model Christ before a fallen world. Grace and mercy should be the foundation of our advocacy and compassion. This is an excellent time to respond privately in prayer and publicly by sharing Gospel and promoting the Kingdom Agenda. Pray to the Lord about these troubled times we’re living in. Pray for survivors, their families, and the communities traumatized by this violence. Spread the Gospel of Christ, His atoning work on Calvary for the sin of all mankind. Pray for wisdom and guidance. Seek to respond in a Christ-like manner. Belief in Christ and repentance from the world’s system are the banners under which we should think, communicate, and live our lives in the evil times. The next person you minister to may prevent the next intended (or unintended) act of violence.
Now is the time to let our light shine so men will see our good works and glorify our Heavenly Father.