It’s a common understanding that our mood, motivations, and beliefs are heavily influenced by the voices we hear.  If the media has my ear all day long, eventually, I’ll make decisions based on their convictions.  The same is true for social media.  Social media is loud.  Too much exposure to other people’s lives for me!  The truth is that there are all kinds of voices contending for our attention.  The more we tune into worldly chatter, the less we will listen to God.  We cannot give an ear to both God and the world simultaneously.  One voice will emerge more dominant than the other, and our thoughts and actions will be impacted by whichever one we give precedence to.  It’s called the power of influence.  Here’s what the Bible has to say about it:

“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals.’” (1 Corinthians 15:33)
“Don’t you know that a little leaven leavens the whole batch of dough?” (1 Corinthians 5:6)
“The one who walks with the wise will become wise, but a companion of fools will suffer harm.” (Proverbs 13:20)

You’ve heard the saying, “You are what you eat.”  That’s the concept behind these verses.  We become what we consume.  It doesn’t just matter a little who we hang out with and what we listen to, it matters a lot.   What’s the strongest voice speaking into you?   Is it social media?  Television - the news, a friend?  Or are you speaking the truth in love because Scripture is the loudest voice in your life?

There is only one way to avoid looking, acting, and sounding like the world:  its giving Christ the position of the most dominant voice.  Practically speaking, this means I have to spend time in God’s Word.  I need to read it and know it - I need to soak in it and meditate on it.  What or who is speaking to us?  Like it or not, what comes out of my mouth is a result of what’s going into my ear.  Christ is the best voice to follow.  Are your conversations filled with faith or fear?  Is your mindset on things above? (Colossians 3:2) 

I love the fact that the Holy Spirit reminds us of God’s truth. (John 14:26)  But note, that to be reminded of something means you’ve already heard it.  If I fail to put God’s Word in my heart and mind, I give the Spirit little to work with.  His is absolutely the best voice to follow.  Give God’s perfect and powerful Word precedence over any other. A joyful noise will come out of your mouth.

TOM