The world has more noise than ever—TV, radio, news, smartphones, social media, and the list goes on. The internet gives everyone a voice. In a positive sense, we all have an online platform to share ideas and communicate with one another. In a negative sense, what we say online rarely gives grace to those who hear.
Remember the wisdom of James 1:19,
“Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.”
How can we create a counter-culture to the yelling match we see in the world? Here’s a start:
Unplug. One of most helpful limits you can implement in your life is a limit on screen time. We must be intentional about what goes into our hearts. This means blocking off specific times where you aren’t online.
Think before you speak (post). Before you say or post something ask yourself these questions: Am I certain what I am saying is true? Am I speaking the truth in love? Will this give grace to those who hear? How would Jesus address this topic?
Really listen to someone. One of the most powerful ways to love someone is to listen to them. Instead of listening to hundreds of voices at once on social media, sit down and have a conversation. It is a rarity to find someone who is fully present when they are talking to you. Pete & Gerri Scazzero call this incarnational listening. Here’s the definition,
“To listen at a heart level with empathy, attuned to the words and nonverbal communication of another person so that the other person feels felt by you.”
Practice these things with people closest to you and see the difference it makes.
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