Daily Devotions with Chaplain Kenny for Wednesday, January 24, 2024: Navigating Digital Disagreements with Grace and Wisdom

 

The Daily Devotional
Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Navigating Digital Disagreements

with Grace and Wisdom

Let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.
James 1:19b (NRSV)

Introduction

Katara's pulse quickened as she prepared to counter the accusations her close friend was making. The online post in question wasn't about her, despite the implications. However, before responding, Katara paused for a moment of prayer. This brief interlude brought a wave of calm over her, allowing her to truly listen and understand the pain underlying her friend's words. It became evident that the issue was more profound than it seemed at first glance. Recognizing her friend's deep hurt, Katara's initial urge to defend herself faded away, replaced by a desire to support her friend in addressing her emotional wounds.

Reflection

During her conversation, Katara developed a more profound appreciation of the teachings in James 1:19, which encourages us to "be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry," and she realized how this advice could be applied to our modern, digitally-connected world, especially on social media platforms like Facebook. She understood that careful listening reveals the deeper emotions behind words, helping to avert the type of anger that doesn't lead to God's righteousness as stated in James 1:20. This insight helped Katara empathize with her friend's true feelings, a sensitivity she attributes to a moment of prayer, which shifted her focus from her own hurt to her friend's. Katara considered how, without this moment of reflection, she might have impulsively reacted in offense, exacerbating the conflict rather than promoting understanding—a lesson that holds significant relevance for Christians navigating the often challenging terrain of digital communication.

Quick to Listen

Understanding before Reacting: Before typing out a response to a negative Facebook post, take a moment to truly understand the perspective being presented. Ask yourself, "What might be driving this person's feelings or opinions?"
 

Empathy in the Digital Age: Consider the person behind the post. They, like you, have feelings, struggles, and a story that shapes their views. Empathy can transform how we interact online.

Slow to Speak

Thoughtful Responses: Instead of rushing to reply, take time to think about what you want to say. How can your words build bridges rather than walls?
 

Reflecting Christ in Our Words: Remember, our online interactions are a reflection of our faith. Speak with kindness and respect, even in disagreement.

Slow to Anger

Managing Emotions: It's easy to feel angry or hurt by negative posts. Acknowledge these emotions, but don't let them dictate your response.
 

A Higher Calling: As Christians, we're called to respond differently. Anger often leads to rash words and regret. Seek peace and understanding instead.

Application

Practical Exercise: Next time you come across a negative or provocative post on Facebook, pause before responding. Spend a few minutes in prayer, asking God for wisdom and the right words. Then, craft a response that reflects understanding, respect, and kindness.
 

Daily Challenge: For one week, make a conscious effort to apply James 1:19b in all your online interactions. Notice any changes in your conversations and in your own emotional responses.

Conclusion

In the realm of social media, where digital acumen intersects with spiritual discernment, the teachings of James to be "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger" become ever more pertinent. This approach, as exemplified by Katara's experience, transcends beyond mere online etiquette; it is a manifestation of a deeper spiritual maturity that honors God and shows respect towards others. Katara's success in applying these principles during a challenging interaction, marked by a moment of prayerful pause, highlights the transformative power of such wisdom in our digital interactions. Her experience is a testament to the potential of spiritual guidance in fostering thoughtful and empathetic communication, both online and in person, a goal that aligns with the wisdom sought in Proverbs 19:11. This convergence of digital and spiritual wisdom invites us to consistently apply these principles, thereby enriching our interactions in the expansive and interconnected world of social media.

Prayer
 

Dear Heavenly Father, we come to You seeking the grace and wisdom to embody the teachings of James 1:19b in our digital lives. Guide us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, especially when faced with negative postings on social media. Help us to remember that our words have the power to heal or hurt, and grant us the patience and understanding to respond with love and compassion, rather than with hasty anger. May our actions and responses online be a reflection of Your love and kindness, drawing us closer to You and to each other in a world that often feels divided. In all things, Lord, let our hearts and our keyboards be guided by Your unending wisdom and grace. Amen.


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Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA www.ichthus-dnm.org
The Bible texts are from New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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