This blog will be a little chaotic, but I am fired up with a topic that I just have to write about it to get this off my chest. I struggle with gossip and judging people for actions I perceive as wrong. I do this every. single. day. However, this year I became friends with a girl who is in a difficult situation that has opened my eyes to what I think is the biggest problem in today’s society.
Failure to communicate.
I’m not only talking about failure to communicate in jobs or positions, I’m talking about talking to people you disagree with. Listening to people explain their side of the story. Sharing your passions and views with an open mind to the opposing party.
God gave us the gifts of grace and forgiveness. Do people know how much easier it is to forgive when you listen to what the other person has to say?
As Christians, we often are seen as close minded to non-believers. As a missionary, people assume that I am going across the world to force my religion on others. My church had a Q&A with a pastor, jewish professor, a Hindu, and a muslim. Dr. Shiru Lander said something that has stuck with me.
” Each of us has a piece of the truth, and to figure out God we need to talk to each other.”
I am going to these countries to display a love and grace that comes from the Father. Am I going to run into people who openly criticize my religion and how I’m practicing it? Probably. But I am going to listen to their view points. I’m going to try my hardest to love them through our disagreeing beliefs, and just explain that the reason I am a Christian is because I can’t take the weight of my sin. Whether you believe in sin or not, everyone can agree that humans screw up. Christians just have security in knowing that our life isn’t confined to that one mess up, it is defined in the unique ingredients that God used to create and save us.
Okay, back to my friend. She is one of the kindest, purest hearts I have ever met. But she messed up. As her friend, I know her heart and mind and I know that her mistake isn’t the core of who she is. I just get frustrated at the people who gossip and spread hate about her without ever talking to her about it. I’m basically writing this blog because God teaches us only to love and leave judgement to Him. We aren’t on this planet to hate others for their beliefs or mistakes, we are here to practice love, grace, and forgiveness, and I feel like thats a whole lot easier to do if we communicate with each other.
On almost another topic, my beautiful squad and I have been doing a devotional together. The other day, the devo told us to recite this phrase every day for a month, whenever you don’t feel worthy.
Your value does not increase or decrease based on what others might say or think about you. Your value comes from the ingredients God used to make and save you.
I needed to hear that, and my guess is others need to hear it to.
Thank you for reading my very opinionated blog. If you want to have a discussion about is, please feel free to reach out, I would be happy to hear your opinion on this topic!
As always, please reach out if you have any prayer requests or would like to know how you can help me on my journey! Peace and blessings <33
