How do you get your news? Whether viewing them in print or on your digital screen, today’s headlines affect our hearts and minds. Some stories, as we read them, stir up in us a desire to do something. Other stories stir up our desire to “change the channel” because, while hard or sad, they don’t seem to concern us. We waver between poles of concern and indifference. How should a growing Christian engage today’s headlines? Here are four questions to consider:
1) What is my source for today’s headlines?
The first thing to consider is where you get your daily news. Sensational headlines are designed to move our passions quickly. Before you take the bait to click on a story or turn the page it’s always good to check the source (James 3:11). Is it especially conservative or liberal? Is it a political source or a religious source? Is it a website or newspaper representing a particular group and their agenda? Read all kinds of reputable sources that both affirm and challenge your own assumptions! This is a good way to practically apply Proverbs 3:18-19.
2) How can I allow today’s news to disturb my day but not disrupt my calling?
Everyday we read of acts that are both wicked and disturbing (whether #charleston, #caitlyn, or #scotus). Be disturbed. But don’t let news disrupt you from your calling. When Jesus was presented with disturbing news--whether personal (Matthew 14:10-14) or national (Luke 13:1-5)--his schedule could change, but his calling never changed. Whether he retreated from the crowds or engaged with them, His actions after hearing news were always consistent with his calling to preach the gospel of the kingdom of God (Mark 1:33-39). News may change your schedule, but it doesn’t change your calling to be united to Christ and speak about it.
3) How can I avoid both indifference and false-guilt about the headlines?
Prayer acknowledges that we have a God who is wiser than us and who gives us grace. That grace not only motivates us to act, but it empowers us as we act. Indifference will move you to inaction. It’s an attitude that says, “I have no responsibility regarding the news I read.” False-guilt will move you to hasty action. It’s an attitude that on a surface level says, “I’m responsible for everything I read,” Repent (simply turn away) from both these attitudes. Instead let the headlines move you to pray. Pray for wisdom, courage, and grace from God that will move you to appropriate action.
The first three questions prepare you for the final question:
4) What is my next logical-spiritual action?
Be informed. Become informed. But do not bathe yourself in every piece of media coverage. When considering how much news to watch and read here’s my rule of thumb: Take in enough news to move you toward your next logical-spiritual action. I write “logical-spiritual” to recognize that we are people made up of head-heart-hands. There is a connection between what we think-feel-do. Passively watching network news or clicking “like” buttons on social media will not change our community or country. Ask yourself specifically, “What is my next logical-spiritual action today and tomorrow?” Prayer in Jesus’ name, personal repentance for sin, and conversation with people on both sides of an issue (keeping in mind Proverbs 26:4-5) are all real actions with the potential to shape you over time. As you read today’s headlines how is the Holy Spirit moving you to act?
Keep these four practical questions in mind and you will find yourself reacting less and interacting more as you engage today’s headlines.
In Him,
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