Polarization seems to be the norm while calmness, thoughtfulness, and peace seem to be at a premium these days. Competing groups want their voices heard and demands met. Leaders around the world are influencing citizens in every community. I recently reached out to Bro. Aubrey Johnson via text regarding how we can discern and function in such chaos along with being so connected. I learned a long time ago if a sermon is good enough to be preached once, it is good enough to be preached twice. I feel the same about articles and all advice. This is Aubrey’s response to my question, “How can we deal with challenges that make us feel we are under attack?” These Scriptures and points are worthy of our attention:
James 3:13: Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.
James 3:14-16: But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.
James 3:17-18: But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
Philippians 4:8-9: Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me- practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Matthew 5:9: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Matthew 6:33: But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Psalm 23:6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
1. Worldly wisdom can be impressive and yet demonic. Spiritual wisdom is true, helpful, and good.
2. The sources that we look to, and trust for wisdom should meet James’ standard.
3. Seek voices that are: peaceable, gentle, and reasonable.
4. You can’t determine the truth of a message by the passion of the messenger.
5. God is the God of peace.
6. Aim toward the highest good and goodness will flow to you.
We can be concerned, but may we be more concerned about our connection to Christ, no plan or response is better than that!
