Public discourse is filled with hatred and vitriol. At least that is my perspective. I cannot watch the news, read online articles, and listen to public discourse without getting either frustrated or worn out. The blame game was strong in 2020 and it continues to linger.
Maybe you are like me and you’re just mentally and emotionally exhausted. One thing is for sure, postmodernism and secularism has failed us! Postmodernism’s favorite child, relativism, failed to cure our need for significance. If anything goes, if everything is relative, then we are free to live as we wish. Now ask yourself … is this philosophy really working out well in our culture?
Of course, the answer is a resounding NO! The Bible tells us that when the Israelites, for instance, wanted to do “what was right in their own eyes” the nation deteriorated (Judges 2:16-23). Why? Because left to our own vices and desires we always choose the wrong alternative. We are by nature depraved (Romans 8:7; 3:23; 1 Corinthians 2:14).
Now, some of us do like a good debate. I’m not opposed to it. I like debating others and probing into things. But we must focus on the essentials. Not too long ago, I had a conversation with a fellow believer about whether or not people should wear masks. It’s likely you had this type of discussion with others too! I know good people on both sides of the argument.
This fellow believer was pretty adamant about the fact that people should wear masks at all times. I said, “I’m not opposed to your argument, but some disagree. However, whether either of us are right or wrong, how are you going to love those who disagree with you?” Love is the key. Jesus told us to “love one another” (John 13:34–35), which becomes the way the world identifies we are his disciples. In fact, he also told us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:43–44). Easier said then done!
What is the Alternative?
How do we overcome the vitriol that surrounds us? How do we find peace in the midst of chaos? What are some of the things we can do to overcome being worn out by others or our present circumstances? Let me suggest to you a few things:
First, turn off the news for a period of time. I find that often times I need to turn off the news. Instead, I take time to meditate on God’s word and on godly things. Take time to reflect on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Take time to reflect on the beauty of God. Take time to study his Word. Paul said, “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” (Philippians 4:8).
Second, seek wisdom from God’s Word. Paul told Timothy, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.” God’s Word is more with listening to than arguments about who is right and who is wrong about politics, culture, and even religious things. Let Scripture penetrate your soul, sanctify you more deeply, and turn you into greater Christlikeness (Hebrews 4:12)
Third, practice some of the often neglected spiritual disciplines. Most Christ followers, at least I hope, would say they read their Bible and pray with some level of frequency. However, meditation, fasting, memorizing God’s Word, and evangelism are neglected:
- Meditation. In Christian meditation the goal is to fill one’s mind with God’s Word. Psalm 2 reminds us, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked nor stands in the way of sinners nor sits in the seat of scoffers but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” (I recommend that you find a place to be quiet without distractions from others and your electronic devices)
- Fasting. The effects of fasting include: repentance, deeper intimacy of God through prayer, getting rid of unwanted ungodly desires, and the awakening of a hunger for more of God. Fasting from Facebook, Instagram, the news, or anything that distracts you from God is healthy for your soul. (I recommend fasting from food for at least 12 hours to start with, or you can fast from social media for a week)
- Scripture memorization. Fill your mind with the Word of God. Not only will it prevent you from sinning (Psalm 119:11), it will also bring you joy and satisfaction in God as you renew your mind with the truth (Psalm 19:7–10). (I recommend memorizing a few verses from the Psalms to start).
- Evangelism. People are more than ever looking for answers. They are longing for peace and hope. They long for satisfaction and meaning. Guess what? Jesus is the answer. Give them Jesus! (I recommend these two simple tools for evangelism: https://thestoryfilm.com and https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=V7mURm-8cOI
Finally, be resolved to seek after God. I have committed to memorize and meditate on the following words from Jonathan Edwards:
“Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.”
Do away with vitriol and seek after God instead! He’s greater, more beautiful, and fulfilling than anything this world has to offer!!
Written by Daniel Messina
