On the evening news we see political rivals screaming at each other.  Then we scroll through social media and read comment after comment filled with anger and hatred.  Confusion, conflict, and controversy surround us and information and opinions are pervasive.  You might be caught up, weighed down and infuriated by it all, or so turned off you're apathetic.  What is the right response for a follower of Christ?  How should we think, act, and speak?  Each individual must seek Bible-saturated, Spirit-controlled responses to the realities in our nation and world.  Listen to 1 Peter 4:7-11

“The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.  Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.  Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.  As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies - in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.  To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen”

"The end of all things is at hand."  But the end is not yet, so how should we live?

Well, what does the Scripture say?  We should "be self-controlled and sober-minded" in our prayers.  Prayer involves worship, humility, obedience, submitting to God.

We should "keep loving one another earnestly."  The intense love demonstrated to us by Christ - should saturate our words and actions.

We should "show hospitality to one another without grumbling." Our words and actions should be hospitable - respectful even when we oppose another person's beliefs and actions. And we shouldn't complain… period.  If you stumble in this area, recognize what you're doing and stop through the power of the Holy Spirit.

We should “serve one another” with the gifts and strength God has given us.  The results of that action will vary, but our part is to believe and serve within the power of Christ.

If you are going to speak God's words, you must first know God's words.  So read, study, meditate, pray and then speak the Word of God.  That is where the power and peace will be found.  Knowing this, how should we respond to the world around us?

Now more than ever, we must consider others before ourselves and be marked by humility.

Now more than ever, we must act with honor and integrity.  We must speak honestly and respectfully.

Now more than ever, we must know and live God's Word.  “In order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.  To Him belong glory and dominion forever and ever.  Amen.”

Tom