URC Daily Devotion 16th October 2021

There are six things that the Lord hates,
    seven that are an abomination to him:
haughty eyes, a lying tongue,
    and hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked plans,
    feet that hurry to run to evil,
 a lying witness who testifies falsely,
    and one who sows discord in a family.

Reflection
We may be tempted to think that this passage only applies to criminals.  However, it sounds like an average day on social media to me.

“My opinion matters the most.” 
“I’m going to share this article without fact checking it or checking the source.” 
“People may die from misinformation shared, but that is not my problem.” 
“I’m going to really upset this person with my version of facts.” 
“I’m going to be quick to respond, because they need to know how wrong they are.” 
“Truth is irrelevant anyway.” 
“We are already divided.” 

Not just for criminals, these words serve as a warning to you and me too.  Typed words can lead to as many deaths as a weapon.  Don’t believe me?  In a recent White House Press Conference (July 2021), people were warned about misinformation on the internet being initiated by just a handful of people and then subsequently “shared” many times – leading to thousands not taking up the vaccine in the States and to many more hospitalisations and deaths.
So those articles and memes we share matter.  
 
What if…
–          we humbled ourselves and considered what others think or have to say?
–          we fact checked things and carefully read articles before “liking” or         sharing?
–          we work to help stop the spread of false information(and gossip)?
–          we had conversations, rather than fought to “win” an argument?
–          we waited 24 hours before responding to something?
–          we celebrated truth?
–          we acknowledged our divisions and sought to build bridges?
–          we applied this not just to social media but to church, family and community?
 
Prayer
God, we seek your wisdom.  In this quiet space, speak to us your truth.  Guide our interactions with others.  May they be grace-filled conversations that celebrate truth.  In Jesus’ name we pray.  Amen.