ICHABOD

“And she named the child Ichabod, saying, The glory is departed from Israel: because the ark of God was taken, and because of her father in law and her husband. And she said, The glory is departed from Israel: for the ark of God is taken.” - 1 Samuel 4:21-22

I am amazed at the names given to babies these days. It seems like parents want to give their children unique names --- as if the child receives extra credit for having an unusual name. I don't think parents really think about the fact that the child has to grow up using that name. I once knew a grown woman who hated her first name because it was so unique.

In Biblical times, often the name of a child had a meaning that was prophetic of his life. Also, it wasn't unusual for a child's name to reflect an event at his or her birth. Such was the case with Ichabod.

Eli was priest of Israel. On the surface, it didn't seem like Eli was a bad man, but he refused to exercise discipline over his sons. His sons grew up to be very wicked men. Eli's sons abused the priesthood, using the position for manipulation, selfish gain and immorality. Eli refused to step in and stop the wickedness. As a result, Eli and his sons died the same day. Israel lost a hard fought battle. During the battle, Eli's sons died and the ark of the covenant was captured by the enemy. When word reached Eli about his sons and the ark, he fell, broke his neck and died.

The wife of one of Eli's sons was giving birth at the time word got back about the battle. The mother died in child birth. When the child was born, he was named, Ichabod, because the glory had departed from Israel. The name, Ichabod, literally means, "the glory has departed."

Sadly, it appears that the glory has departed in our day.

1. THE GLORY HAS DEPARTED FROM OUR CHURCHES

I can't help but think that we could accurately relabel most of our churches with the name, Ichabod. The glory has departed from most churches. On one hand, some churches encourage excesses that cannot be supported by Scripture. On the other hand, some churches are spiritually dead, showing no sign of any life. Whether it is strange fire or no fire, the cause is the same: the glory has departed.

What has happened to protracted revivals? What has happened to mass baptisms? What has happened to shouting in churches? I know the answer: the glory has departed. In some circles, it seems as though people are trying to manufacture the glory by having lighting shows and emotional entertainment. I guess their thinking is that if the Spirit doesn't move people, maybe a bass guitar will. Regardless, the glory has departed.

2. THE GLORY HAS DEPARTED FROM OUR COUNTRY

A politician recently made the remark that America has never been great. While some of us may disagree with his belief, I think we all can admit that America is not as great as she used to be. The glory has departed. The temptation is to blame everything on politicians. Certainly, they are responsible, to some degree, for America's woes, but when we dig deeper we realize that the real problem is sin. Our nation has embraced sin. Our country has celebrated sin, claiming that we've advanced as a civilization. Corruption, dishonesty, immorality, abortion, homosexuality and transgender rights are among the issues that our nation has tolerated and accepted. If we truly seek God's blessing on our country, we can't be silent or tolerant about issues that He has clearly condemned in His Word. The glory has departed.

3. THE GLORY HAS DEPARTED FROM OUR CITIZENS

While our nation has openly embraced wickedness, the glory has departed from families and individuals. Divorce is a common occurrence in America, even among professing Christians. Cohabitation is considered proper behavior. Drug use is out of control. Suicides are increasing. Racism and hatred is spreading like wildfire. Sexual and physical abuse is a regular headline in our news.

Like Eli's day, the glory has departed from America. Let's learn some lessons from Eli. Why did the glory depart from Israel during the days of Eli? Here are just a few reasons. First of all, there was unholy leadership. The priesthood was contaminated with sin. Eli's sons had desecrated the priesthood with their wicked ways. It is sad to hear about sexual abuse and sexual misconduct among those in leadership. Furthermore, it is shameful to hear of dishonesty, cover-ups and corruption among those in leadership. John Maxwell once said, "Everything rises and falls on leadership." Basically, the people follow the example of their leaders. Ron Dunn once said that the spiritual level of a church will never rise above the spiritual level of its pastor. Unholy leadership is a mark of God's judgment upon the people. Where there is unholy leadership, the glory quickly departs.

Secondly, there was idolatry among the people. The people were treating the Ark of the Covenant like a good-luck charm. They had abandoned God for the worship of the Ark. Today our idol may not be an Ark, but we worship sports, sex and success. In religious circles, we worship the church instead of Christ. Others worship music styles or denominational distinctives instead of the Lord. America is an idolatrous land. The glory has departed.

Finally, there was spiritual apathy in Israel. They were no longer passionate about God. They had gotten away from the things of the Lord. Here in America, we conveniently leave God at the church house until we need Him. Most Americans are religious. Some are even spiritual. Few are actively worshiping the Lord and obeying His Word. We have a nation of religious pagans. As a result, the glory has departed.

It is easy to point out the problems, but what is the solution? What can we do if the glory has departed? We need to recognize that God is sovereign. We cannot manipulate Him into doing what we want. There is no magical formula for this. Most preachers give a three, four or five step process to receive something from the Lord --- as if spiritual renewal is a recipe to follow. The fact is that God gives His blessings as He wishes and He can remove the glory any time He wishes.

While there is no formula for experiencing the glory once more, there are a few things that may make us candidates for a season of refreshing. First of all, we need to get desperate. We shouldn't be casual about the present situation. The glory has departed. Time is running out and the need is great. Secondly, we need to humble ourselves. We need to run to God in prayer. Don't be content with an Ichabod life. Don't deceive yourself into thinking that America is too great to fall. "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and he shall lift you up." Finally, we need to repent. Turn to God and passionately seek Him.

When we turn from God, His glory departs. I would hate to have the name “Ichabod” describe my life, wouldn't you?

THE SIN OF SHOWING OFF

“And Hezekiah was glad of them, and shewed them the house of his precious things, the silver, and the gold, and the spices, and the precious ointment, and all the house of his armour, and all that was found in his treasures: there was nothing in his house, nor in all his dominion, that Hezekiah shewed them not.” - Isaiah 39:2

Hezekiah had been shown great mercy by the Lord. The Lord had protected him and his people from enemy invasion. God granted Hezekiah 15 extra years of life. Despite all of this, Hezekiah failed miserably when the Babylonian king sent an envoy to visit him. Hezekiah, in his pride, showed them the glory of his kingdom. In fact, the Bible says, “there was nothing in his house, nor in his dominion, that Hezekiah shewed them not.” In other words, Hezekiah showed off to his visitors.

There is a tendency within our fallen nature to please or impress others. It is easy for us to show off. We are never too young or too old to show off. Youngsters show off to their peers. Adults show off their possessions. Businessmen want to flaunt their success. Rich people exhibit their excesses. Whether we want to admit it or not, we are all guilty of showing off.

The Christian community is not immune to showing off. Pastors like to show off the size of their ministry. Authors like to brag about the number of books they have written. Those with a social media presence are quick tell about their large following. I love Southern Gospel music, but I have to admit that bass singers often show off the depth of their vocal range --- usually at the end of a song. I've even known some who seem to brag about their humility!

Internationally, people have a dim view of Americans. They see us as proud, arrogant and gaudy. I have to admit that their view is rather accurate. We do seem to be rather pushy and flashy. We like to show off.

I've never heard a sermon about the sin of showing off. Hezekiah's failure is a Biblical lesson about this sin. Hezekiah's people had to pay dearly for his sin. Sadly, Hezekiah didn't have the remorse he should have. When he learned that the consequences of his actions would come to the nation after his death, he comforted himself that his image would be untarnished. Wow! That sounds like politicians today! They are more concerned about their image than the people they are serving.

Hezekiah's example proves that sin has far reaching effects. It is wrong to assume that personal sin only impacts your life. The penalty for sin may devastate many people around you. It did in Hezekiah's case.

Why is showing off such a bad thing? First of all, we show off because of pride. We want to draw attention to ourselves. We want to be noticed. We like to be praised. We enjoy the accolades of peers. Pride is a deceptive sin, because it based upon a false assumption that we deserve the applause of others.

Secondly, showing off is sinful because it robs God of the glory due Him. You see, if anything noteworthy is accomplished in your life, the Lord is the One who is responsible. James wrote that EVERY good and EVERY perfect gift comes from the Lord. God has given us unique gifts, talents and abilities. He has arranged circumstances to work in our favor. He has done miraculous things in our lives so that He will be glorified through us. What do we do with these blessings? We want to flaunt them arrogantly in front of others --- as if we are self-made individuals. How would you like it if someone took credit for something you did? That is exactly what we are doing when we show off.

Finally, showing off is sinful because it taints our Christian testimony. If we are honest, we must admit that what we really deserve is hell. We are God's children only because of His grace. We have nothing to boast of. As His children, we are called to be like Jesus. Of all people, Jesus had reason to show off --- but He didn't. Yes, He performed miracles. He drew large crowds. He met numerous needs. Yet He often retreated from the crowds. His ultimate mission was to go to a cross and die in shame. Jesus didn't show off and we shouldn't either.

Although Jesus didn't show off during His earthly ministry, be aware that one day He is coming in glory. He has a glorious home that His children will see. Remarkably, He is going to share it with us. When we behold Him that day, we will have nothing to brag about. We won't be showing off. Instead, we'll be giving all the praise to Jesus.

Instead of showing off, let's tell people about our wonderful Lord. Let's brag on Jesus. And may we live in such a way that He will be seen in us!!!

WHAT'S WRONG WITH CHURCH?

“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” - Hebrews 10:25

These days, it isn't uncommon for most professing believers to be absent from church on Sunday morning. If the truth were told, a large percentage of church members rarely, if ever, attend their own church.

It is rather common to hear excuses like, “I don't have to go to church to be a Christian,” or “I can worship God just as well while I'm fishing as I can in church.” They think these are spiritual arguments. What they fail to understand is how far off the mark their thinking really is.

To be honest, local churches are imperfect. Each church has an imperfect pastor, imperfect deacons, imperfect Sunday School teachers and imperfect members. A few churches have strayed from the Biblical truth and should be avoided at all cost. However, most churches in the area where I live have good pastors who are faithfully preaching the Word. Yes, mistakes are made by churches and those who lead them. However, the key is to follow the perfect Son of God. If you are a critic of local churches, I have a word for you. You aren't perfect yourself, so stop nitpicking about imperfections that you see in a church.

To be rather blunt, some church members have dropped out of church because they were never saved to begin with. You can't expect wheat and tares to enjoy fellowship together. Some aren't satisfied unless they are entertained and have an emotional “high” every week. For many, Jesus is no longer the main attraction. Instead, His Name is used as a means to an end. They want the main attraction to be entertaining music, exciting programs and a brief motivational speech.

But that is not what Church is for. Church is not about having religious fun or spiritual entertainment. At least it shouldn't be. The local church is a place where believers of that community gather to worship publicly, experience Christian fellowship and hear God's Word proclaimed. The local church is place where the ordinances of communion and baptism are observed. The local church is place where believers may use their spiritual gifts for the glory of God.

Many want the church to be available for family weddings and funerals. They expect to use facilities for social or civic functions --- but they are noticeably absent when it comes to public worship. They want the church to be there for them, but they have no intention of being there for the church. Hypocritical, isn't it?

I think it is time for all professing Christians to put up or shut up. If you claim to follow Jesus, then act like it. It is time for every believer to be in church on a regular basis. Here are a few reasons why you get back in church.

1. JESUS ESTABLISHED THE CHURCH

Sometimes I hear people say, “I don't believe in organized religion.” I feel like responding, “Do you believe in unorganized religion?” The fact is that Jesus established the church, not men. The Church is a God-ordained organism. If He started the church, shouldn't you be part of it?

2. JESUS DIED FOR THE CHURCH

Jesus loved the church to the extent that He died for the church. If Jesus loved the church, shouldn't we? Shouldn't a believer be passionate about the same things Jesus was? He died for the church. That is how important the church is to Him.

3. GOD COMMANDS THAT WE ATTEND CHURCH

Hebrews 10:25 instructs believers to assemble publicly. “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Churchless Christianity is really nothing more than rebellion and sin.

4. EARLY BELIEVERS WERE PART OF A LOCAL CHURCH

When you read the book of Acts, you'll see that believers were involved in a local church. We don't read of churchless believers in the book of Acts. The early saints felt that the local church was important. Their example should inspire us.

5. THE CHURCH IS A PLACE FOR CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

We need the encouragement and inspiration that other believers offer. Furthermore, there are times we need to be giving the encouragement. We need each other. No Christian is meant to go through life alone.

6. CHURCH ATTENDANCE GIVES TESTIMONY TO YOUR FAITH

I can't see how professing believers can be very effective in winning souls to Jesus if they are not even faithful to a local church themselves. What a horrible testimony it is to claim to be following Jesus and yet not be a faithful church member.

7. CHURCH IS IMPORTANT FOR THE GENERATIONS TO COME

It is important for you to BRING your children to church with you each week. If you don't attend church regularly yourself, you are teaching your children to do the same. If you aren't faithfully attending church, don't be shocked to see your children and grandchildren living sinfully … and dying without Christ.

I am sure there are many more reasons I could give, but why should I? Aren't these enough? You may agree with me in theory, but you need to do more than just agree. You need to get in church yourself. Plan ahead. Get your clothes ready. Have your mind set. Attend the next service … and continue to do so in the future.

I realize that there are bedridden people who are physically unable to go to church and others who have jobs that demand that they work while church services are being conducted. This message is not aimed for these individuals. However, most people who are out of church do not fall into these categories and if you are among them, it is time to change your ways.

What's wrong with the church? There's nothing wrong with the church. However, if you continue to stay out of church, there is something wrong with you.

CATCHING NOTHING

“... that night they caught nothing.” - John 21:3

There is nothing more frustrating for a fisherman than to spend hours fishing and never catching a fish. Some fishermen are known for embellishing the truth when it comes to their fishing expeditions. They come back with these long yarns about the size of fish they caught or dramatic stories of the fish that got away. Yet John 21:3 records that the disciples went fishing and “that night they caught nothing.” The late Vance Havner said that this was one fishing story he believed!

Keep in mind that most of the disciples on board the ship that night were professional fishermen. They fished for a living. They weren't amateurs who simply dabbled in the sport. These were men who had years of experience at fishing. Yet this night, they had empty nets.

Have you ever felt that way about life? Perhaps you feel that way now. Maybe you are discouraged because things aren't going well with your job or career. It could be that you are disheartened as you see your plans and dreams crumble around you. Perhaps you're in ministry and you feel that you are seeing little or no fruit after years of hard labor. It may very well be that you are very depressed as you look at your life and feel that nothing good has come from your years of hard work. If so, there is much to learn from the disciple's awful night of fishing.

One thing we learn about their frustrating night is that they were not in the will of God. You see, several of them had left their nets to follow Jesus. Now that Jesus had died, they went back to fishing. Does this sound familiar? It could be that you are not doing what you know you should be doing. These men were disciples of Jesus. He had called them to fish for men, not casting a net in the sea. One reason that we have empty nets is because we are casting our nets for all the wrong things.

Secondly, they failed miserably because they were fishing in their own effort. When they heeded the words of Jesus, things changed drastically. Another reason that we may be having empty nets is because we are laboring in our own strength. In John 15:5, Jesus said, “Without me ye can do nothing.” It is an exercise in futility for a follower of Jesus to do things apart from the Lord's blessing and help. We need to seek the Lord, respect His Word, and obey His commands. When we trust God and obey His Word, we will find the nets getting full.

Next, they failed because they refused to learn from the past. In Luke chapter 5, Simon Peter met Jesus as he was finishing a night of fishing. Simon Peter had fished all night and had caught nothing. As Peter expressed his frustrations, Jesus told him to launch out into the deep and cast his net. When he obeyed the Lord, his nets were full. Now, some time later, Peter is at it again. He has fished without the Lord's help and ended up with empty nets. He failed to learn from his past experience. It is truly a foolish thing to repeat failed procedures and expect positive results. We are in the schoolroom of life and the Lord is our teacher. Some of us need to finally learn the lessons He's been trying to teach us.

Also, the disciples found that the Word of the Lord makes a difference. Jesus spoke the word, “Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find.” After a long night of futile fishing, it didn't make sense to simply cast the net on the right side of the ship. Yet a word from God makes all the difference in the world. When the disciples obeyed the word of the Lord and cast their net on the right side of the ship, they caught so much fish that their net was overwhelmed with fish. Many people are catching nothing in their nets and yet their Bibles continue to collect dust. No wonder their nets are empty.

Finally, when their net was full, they recognized that it was the Lord who was behind their great catch. How many of us have seen God do miracles … and then failed to give Him proper praise? When your nets are full, do you give God the glory, or do you simply brag about your fishing skills? If you fail to give God the praise for past victories, don't be surprised if your victories get few and far between.

What should you do when you have empty nets? Certainly there may be a myriad of answers to this question because every person's situation may be different. I think there are some basic things that we should do when we have empty nets. First of all, seek the Lord. Start your day in God's Word. There is great insight in His Word. Every morning, get on your knees and ask Him for help and wisdom. Secondly, learn from the past and learn from others. More than likely, you've had empty nets before. What lessons did you learn from these experiences? Also, others have had seasons when their nets were empty. What can you learn from their experiences? Third, keep your nets in the water. You'll never catch fish when your nets are in the boat. Keep the nets in the sea. In other words, keep living for Jesus and obeying His Word. Finally, give God all the praise when your nets get full again. He deserves all the credit.

Never be content with empty nets. Seek God. Trust Him. Obey His Word. Let God fill your nets once again!

POLITICS AND THE PULPIT

"Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine." - 2 Timothy 4:2

I am seeing an alarming trend among churches in America.  During an election cycle, more and more pastors are permitting politicians and politically driven people to occupy their pulpits.  Some would argue that these "guest speakers" are people of faith who are simply giving their testimony.  Some of these men may even be ordained ministers who are political activists.  These men tend to be very vocal on political views and very silent on the Bible.

Am I the only one who finds fault with this?  Politics should be kept out of the pulpit.  The pulpit should be reserved for the preaching of the Word and not the spreading of political dogma.  A pastor should zealously protect his flock and pulpit from being led astray from the Gospel.  We are called to go and make disciples of men, not make Republicans (or Democrats) of men.

The local church should be a sanctuary from the political upheaval of our day, not a facilitator of it.  At church, people should hear the Good News, not political views.

Let me be clear about something, lest I be misunderstood.  Some hot-button issues of our day may be addressed from the pulpit.  It is never wrong to condemn evil in our society.  It is not wrong to preach against sin, even sins that may have political overtones (such as abortion, same-sex marriage and transgender issues).  However, it is wrong for a church to publicly endorse a political candidate. 

The church used to be considered a sacred place.  People used to respect the church.  Now, because of our departure from the Bible, the church has lost her respectability.  The world no longer respects the Church because the Church resembles the world.  We cannot reach the world by acting like the world.

In the Gospels, we read that Jesus cleansed the temple.  I believe that churches need to be cleansed today.  I believe that if Jesus walked to and fro today, He would not be pleased with what He sees in churches.  He would not even be welcome in some churches.  If He were to cleanse the temples in America today, politics would be among the things He would cast out.

Read carefully the Gospels and the book of Acts & you'll find that political opposition and hostility was a regular occurrence.  Despite this, Jesus and His disciples shared the Word with the people, not political opinions.  By the way, political opinions are just that ... opinions.  We have a sure word from the Lord.  That is the Word that is needed desperately today.  Let us not be guilty of feeding the flock pig's slop when they could be nourishing on the meat of the Word.

Although He spoke to specific issues of His day, Jesus refused to get deeply involved in politics.  Instead, He came to meet a greater need --- the spiritual need of precious souls.  Since when has the temporal affairs of this world become more important than the eternal souls of men?

If you play with fire, you will be burned.  Billy Graham learned this the hard way when he aggressively supported Richard Nixon's presidential campaign.  Nixon's private life and political corruption taught Dr. Graham to stay faithful to the Word and stay away from politics.  Today, many preachers are going down a similar path, but the ultimate result will be same.  Let's keep our ministries away from politics and avoid being burned.

The preacher needs to be heard and respected for his preaching ministry.  He needs to keep his ministry clean from worldly influence.  The pulpit is the place where God's Word should be heralded. 

What the world needs desperately today is God's Word, not political rhetoric.  

POLITICS AND THE CHRISTIAN

"Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar's, and unto God the things which be God's." - Luke 20:25

The political climate of our country is toxic.  It feels like any moment our nation may erupt into civil unrest and chaos.  In the past, differences of opinion were tolerated for the sake of civility, national unity and pride.  These days, manipulation, anger, hostility and even violence explode when friends discuss their political views.

Sadly, I find many Christians being swept into the angry tide of political mayhem.  I am disappointed and disheartened to see Christians get hostile on social media over political differences.

While I have strong political views, I am not naive.  I know that politics is a dirty business.  Corruption abounds in politics on both sides of the isle.  Hypocrisy is the norm in American politics.  Those who preach the highest morals on the campaign trail are often guilty of the worst criminal activity themselves.  We should never place too much faith or confidence in a human being, especially those in politics.

While many may disagree with my view about politics and politicians, I want to challenge my Christian friends to exercise common sense about a few issues in regards to politics.

1.  DO YOUR CIVIC DUTY

Jesus said, "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's."  As Christians, we are not immune to civic responsibility.  We are to pay our taxes.  Also, when we are chosen, we are to serve on a jury.  Plus, it is vitally important that we vote every time there is an election.  Don't just complain about the course of our country, do your part and vote!  Vote according to Biblical convictions.

2.  A CHRISTIAN MAY GO INTO PUBLIC SERVICE

It isn't wrong for a Christian to go into politics.  He or she needs to be forewarned, however, that the higher a person climbs on the political ladder, the more he or she will be tempted to compromise in the area of integrity.  Certainly, Christians are needed in our government, but they should never compromise their faith.

3.  DON'T BE CONSUMED BY POLITICS

I find too many Christians are consumed by politics.  They can't hold a rational conversation about the issues without getting too emotional.  While it is important to have political views, don't let these matters be your main passion.   Some may object to this, but I believe that there are more important matters for a Christian to be consumed with.  Do people know you more by your politics or your faith? 

4.  AGREE TO DISAGREE

I think there are certain basic issues all Christians should agree on.  However, there is room for disagreements on numerous issues.  When a fellow believer expresses views that are different from yours, it is important to agree to disagree.  Don't belittle the other person or get into a hostile exchange. I find it ironic & sad,  that some will object to bullying tactics of a politician, then turn around and bully the ones who support that politician. It is time for Christians to act like Christians, especially when we disagree on politics.

5.  GIVE MORE ATTENTION TO GOD'S KINGDOM

Finally, give your passion and allegiance to God's kingdom.  Jesus said, "Render ... unto God the things which be God's."  I don't think the Lord is impressed with Christians trading verbal barbs on social media about politics.  I don't think He is pleased with those who rarely go to church but will drive hundreds of miles to see a politician.  I doubt that the Lord is satisfied with those who complain about the length of a preacher's sermon, but will speak glowingly of a politician's speech that runs more than an hour.  The Bible does NOT say that there is rejoicing in heaven over one soul that changes political parties. 

If you read the Gospels, it is obvious that many Jews had high expectations that the Messiah would deliver them from Roman oppression.  To the disappointment of many, Jesus refused to get involved in political issues.  Instead, His focus was on the mission He was sent to accomplish.  Jesus was focused on the Kingdom of God, not politics. 

His own disciples wanted Jesus to commit to a timetable when a political revolution would occur.  Rather than encouraging their political ambition, Jesus said, "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.  But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."  Jesus challenged His disciples to be busy with evangelism, not politics.  That's what they did.  Against all political pressure, the disciples got busy spreading the Gospel.  Shouldn't we?

 

Paul wrote, "Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."  While many are passionately pushing a political agenda, Christians are called to zealously proclaim the Gospel.  Which are you doing?

A thousand years from now, it won't matter who won a Presidential race or captured a congressional seat.  The United States probably won't exist a thousand years from now.

It is time for Christians to passionately labor for the things that will last forever.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND THE CHRISTIAN

"... whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." - 1 Corinthians 10:31

Social media is a blessing in many ways.  It allows me to stay in contact with family, old school chums, former co-workers and friends.  Social media also keeps me encouraged and inspired by those in ministry.  I find my soul being enriched with the wisdom that is sometimes shared on social media.

Despite all the positive potential that social media offers, it is also a place where people show their evil nature.  Profanity, accusations, name-calling, bullying and threats are not uncommon on social media.  For me, the worst part of social media is the conduct of professing Christians.  So let me share some common sense tips with my Christian friends.

1.  DON'T USE PROFANITY

First of all, a Christian should not use profanity.  Ever.  Posting filthy language on social media is totally inexcusable.  Think before you post something on social media.  Remember that unbelievers read your words.  How can you be an effective witness to the lost when your language is just as bad as theirs?  Secondly, remember that God sees the words you post on social media.  Don't use profanity.  Don't use God's Name in vain. 

2.  BE KIND

You will not always agree with the opinions of others.  That's fine.  Be courteous.  It is true that our nation has become angry, hostile and downright mean.  That is no excuse for a Christian to act this way.  Sometimes the best thing you can do is to agree to disagree.  Jerry Vines once said, "A Christian does not have the luxury to be unkind."

3.  DON'T AIR YOUR DIRTY LAUNDRY

Too many professing Christians use social media to express their frustrations.  Whether it is work-related problems, family issues, marital disharmony, or disagreements with the neighbors, some vent their raw emotions on social media.  This only deepens wounds and makes problems worse.  Sure, some may take "your side" on the issue, but in the end you are part of the problem and not part of the solution.  The Bible instructs us how to handle disagreements.  It is time for Christians to obey the Bible. 

4.  DON'T LIVE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Also, don't spend all day on social media.  You have a life to live, so live it!  John Piper said, “One of the great uses of Twitter and Facebook will be to prove at the Last Day that prayerlessness was not from lack of time.”  Don't waste your life consumed by social media.   Let me recommend that you spend more time every day in God's Book, the Bible, than you do on Facebook.

5.  USE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA FOR GOD'S GLORY

Finally, Christians should use social media for the glory of God.  Do the things posted on your Facebook wall glorify God?  As your "friends" look at your social media accounts, is it obvious to them that you are a Christian? 

There is nothing wrong with sharing family pictures or clean humor on social media.  Ultimately, social media should be used to glorify God.  Paul wrote, "... whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."  Notice that Paul instructs us to do ALL to the glory of God.  I believe that in 2018, this includes social media.  

Social media is a great tool, but it must be used correctly.  Use social media for the glory of God.