War of Words

Facebook, the daily friend of many, is filled with more and more political posts as we grow closer to Election Day. Some of the posts aren't very friendly. No matter what party you are for or against any post is sure to bring comments of approval or disapproval. A war of words happens easily with a comment as simple as "I am for"....or "I am against"... Most of the posts aren't that simple or civil.

Another hot topic this time of year is football. Many seem to lose all sense of civility when a comment is made against their team. Another war of words is usually declared by football fans on facebook day in and day out. The safest way to keep peace and avoid confrontation is to simply not to state who you or for or against running for president, or who you are for or against running the football down the field. If anyone asks, plead the fifth and remain friends.

Personally, I am not for or against any football team. So that war is one I don't have to battle. I don't have a dog (no pun intended bulldog fans) in the race so to speak. And as far as political I pray the best man wins and pray that God's people pray for direction as to who God would have them elect. Other than that I say nothing.

As I thought of saying nothing, I thought of Christians sharing their faith with others. Of course, there are many people in this country kind of like me with football. They don't really choose sides. They think they aren't for or against God, but by not being either they are actually against Him. "Choose this day who you will serve" Joshua 24:15 Those who don't choose God, actually choose satan.

In this country, Christians still, have the freedom and opportunity to speak out for Christ. The day may come when we cannot speak the name of Jesus freely. That is another reason why we should spend a lot of time in prayer about the upcoming election. But in these days when we still can speak about God, how many Christians often keep their beliefs to themselves in order to avoid an argument? God says if we are lukewarm He will spit us out of His mouth. Jesus said if we are ashamed of Him, or He will be ashamed of us.

Whosoever, therefore, shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.~Mark 8:38

I use facebook as a ministry outlet. This is where we all have the privilege to speak the name of Jesus. I post devotionals and scripture to encourage and inspire. Therefore I try to be careful not to drag politics in for I feel facebook is a pulpit from which we all have the opportunity to minister to a lost and dying world. I know political posts have the potential to drive away those who may read a Word from God on my wall that they need in their lives. Perhaps even a Word that might prompt someone to choose Jesus, or perhaps a word to prompt someone to pray for our President and our country.

Let's face it saying nothing may be a good thing when it comes to football or politics, but it is not the thing to do when it comes to Christ. Today I encourage all who read this to pray for our country. I encourage all Facebook users to post a positive encouraging word for someone to read who really needs it today.

If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. ~I Chronicles 7:14

jbp