This world is full of noise. It is growing louder every day and with the growing volume the rancor is becoming intense and piercing. The enemy of our souls thrives on noise, rancor and restlessness. And, far too many of us seem to be falling victim to his lies and propaganda.

In John 17 Christ prayed for his disciples as he was preparing for his departure from this world. He prayed for their position and identity to be in Him and not of this world. He prayed for their protection from the evil one and he prayed for their sanctification in truth – acknowledging God’s word is truth. But the beauty is that Jesus drew us – those of who would believe in Christ because of the word of the disciples – into this prayer. All Christ prayed for them, he also prayed for us. We were brought into the mission of this relationship as Christ said, “so that the world may believe you sent me.”

Our lives are the invitation for others to believe in Christ. Or as in the words of Paul, “…it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

So, if we who confess Jesus Christ as Lord of our lives …

Noise cannot be our sound.

              Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10)

Rancor should not be our disposition

              Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also out to love one another. (1 John 4:11)

Restlessness cannot be our mindset

              Come to me, all you that are weary and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29)

Am I saying as Christ followers we should not stand for justice or be a voice for those who have none?

Absolutely not!

However, if our voice only adds to the noise, the rancor and the restlessness then the question I ask is – are we being the voice of Christ?

If we believe God is God, do we begin at his feet before EVERY thought, word and action?

If we believe God is the Creator of all mankind, how well do we love each other – most especially those we do not agree with?

If we believe God is sovereign, do we believe it true in ALL things?

And, if we do not belong to this world

              … why are so many of us living as though we do?