The message struck me mostly because of the current political climate of our country (Philippines) and the slew of posts in social media whenever there are grim occurrences – such as deaths and murder by the police.
This post is inspired by pastor Joby Soriano’s message earlier at CCF Centre
I, for one have not dabbled with this on social media (then again I don’t post as often about personal stuff in social media anyway).
That said, I have seen a lot of posts centering on complaints and not just about the political climate. It’s also about the traffic, work, family, the weather – and so on and so forth.
It seems as if that the first thing we do if we are not happy with something, is to post it on social media – for all the world to see our ‘mood’.
Does complaining do anything productive? Perhaps – when we direct our concerns on the person/entity involved. However, posting it on social media and involving just about everyone who will be reading the post, is likened to vandalism.
Whenever I would see a friend or relative of mine who also happens to be a Christian, complaining on social media, it saddens me. Because the Bible clearly says to “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Now while I know that this is extremely difficult to do, (since it can only be done when you are filled with the Holy Spirit) it does not excuse us for reacting the way we do – much more, broadcast it on social media.
Whenever we complain out loud to people who are not directly relevant to what we are complaining about, we (as Christians) paint God’s image in a negative light – vandalising His name to other people. Especially people who don’t believe in God’s salvation.
The message earlier ended with three things for us to do instead of complaining:
- Take responsibility
- Trust God
- Thank God
If we know that circumstances happen because of a higher authority than any authority on Earth has allowed it, then what can we do about it? We can only trust God that He is a good God and He loves us and He is true to our promises.
So in everything, whether good or bad, whether we like it or not, it is the best thing to do to give thanks.
Especially if you bear the name of God.