The world is such a dark and complex place. There are millions of evil actions that take place every day in the world. Tune into any TV news channel or website and you will find that out quickly. All over the world it seems that the devil is having a field day. He can’t possibly be winning this much, right? It hurts your head and your heart to think that humans could traffic, well… humans! Impossible!
We see national leaders that are hard to get behind and believe in. Is there truth telling anywhere? Couple that with international acts of terror, genocide and a perpetual state of poverty in many countries. Lest we also forget the thousands of refugees from handfuls of countries where there are seemingly no solutions. Depending on what your read, watch, and who you listen to the narrative that guides your life could be one that is spiraling downward and out of control with minimal hope left for society and humanity. Honestly, that is a logical conclusion. There is a prevailing darkness that can be overwhelming.
I have found myself in a similar conversation many times over the past months. People discussing with me local, national and global events and wanting my take. Most of the time it’s easy to see what “channel” people are tuned into and what narrative is heavily influencing their life. It does not make them bad or wrong, it’s just a reality. My common and almost staple response in those conversations is to be careful as to what is shaping their world and life view. In other words, make sure your tuned into the right channels. Your channels will shape your narrative.
NEWS FLASH!!
We must not be confused, deceived or dismissed! There is a God narrative that is happening in the world! I have the privilege everyday of working with 240 missionaries who are changing the world in 50 different countries. I also serve as a member of a thriving local church where we teach the uncompromising Truth and live out the fruits and gifts of the Spirit. I’m also a neighbor who is active in engaging and loving my neighborhood. I also have a family whom I love, educate, serve and direct in God’s ways and biblical truths. I am also a friend to many of whom I’m committed to through accountability, confession, truth and fun.
What I have found in each of these arenas is that there are hundreds of God stories happening everyday and that is just in my network and sphere of relationship. The God narrative is as follows:
- God loves humanity – John 3:16 – I John 3:16 -Jeremiah 31:3-4
- God’s draws man – Romans 2:4 – Ephesians 2:8-9 – Jeremiah 31:3-4
- Man responds – Romans 10: 9-10
- Man glorifies God – Philippians 1:11 & 2:11 – I Peter 4:11
- Man lives for God – Romans 13:14 – Psalms 84:10 – Matthew 22: 35-40
Everyday when we choose to love and be selfless with our spouse, the God narrative advances. Everyday when we reach out and are support and strength to our friends, the God narrative advances. Everyday when we look at our community and plug in and serve with honesty, integrity and Biblical values, the God narrative advances. When we plug into a local church and give, serve, forgive and uphold the standards of the Bible, the God narrative advances. Each day that we choose to operate in the fruits of the spirit with those we disagree with or would even consider an enemy, the God narrative advances!
Please understand, this does not dismiss or ignore all the evil in the world. The God narrative does not dismiss, it accesses, evaluates, prays, networks and then moves to action. The following is the staple scripture of what I’m suggesting:
Matthew 5: 13-15
13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
His kingdom is advancing in all tribes, tongues and nations. Take heart and be encouraged today. Or better yet, change the channel. Find the God narrative and don’t look back!
Marvin Slaton – Modern Day Director
