In the era of information explosion, we are highly exposed to various information more than ever. Meanwhile, in a fast-pacing and rapidly changing world, people are forced to react towards that information, either actively or passively. I wonder if you feel as tired of it all as I do.
Information outside
In social media, we read the hot news, we follow an opinion leader, and we comment on friends’ tweets. Gradually, we build a colourful “e-self” in a virtual world and leave the true self with an empty mind.
In the commercial world, whether you like it or not, advertisements have become a part of our lives. Our lives is filled with various types of advertisements, which are displayed with pretty images and catchy messages. Some of them offer the newest product with an attractive price, some of them speak to ourselves and seem to really care for our needs. But in the end, all they desire is to maximize their profits.
In modern civilization, politicians sell their beautiful ideals to us and persuade people to support them, training institutions tell us what we should learn and to invest for the future, emerging groups like LGBT arise and challenge people’s minds to be open and tolerant. However, no doubt, there is benefit entanglement and subtle innuendo behind each persuasive statement, with the parties concerned trying to impress us with their logic.
Voices inside
Not only that, there are invisible voices that come from within. It happens almost in every single moment and is easily neglected if you don't pay close attention to them. However, it influences our lives in a subtle way that you hardly notice it.
Jesus is the One who knows all our inner thoughts. As it is recorded in Matthew, after forgiving the sins of a paralytic man, He knew that the scribes were irritated and wanted to kill Him. He confronted them with this direct question: “Why do you think evil in your hearts?”
I assume that we should also ask ourselves with this question sometimes. Have you entertained evil thoughts when you are alone? Did you hold the grudge against someone who wronged against you? Did some immoral thoughts sneak into your mind when facing ambiguous situations? Did you plot to sacrifice others' benefits for your own good?
I know I did. And I'm sick of these thoughts.
Listen to Him How should I evaluate voices from outside and within? What should my response be? What should I stick to? Before I knew Jesus and the Bible, I was drowned in tons of the information and felt lost. I wished that I could know the only Truth and follow it.
Thank God that I finally found it in His Word. With all the voices around, the Word of God always provides people with true wisdom and guidance. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”(Psalm chapter 119, verse 105) In John’s gospel, the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. Later on, John the Baptist bore witness that it is Jesus.
When Jesus was transfigured on the mountain, and appeared to the disciples with Moses and Elijah, Peter suggested to build three tents for them. “A voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him" (Mark chapter 9, verse 7b). Upon hearing this, the disciples fell on their faces and saw no one but Jesus when they lifted up their eyes.
Among all the things happening around us, may our attention be not drawn by something else but Jesus. May God help us to hear no one but Jesus. May God help us to listen to His Word only, for in His Word is eternal life.
Cindy Cheng was born and brought up in central China. Cindy enjoys travelling and reading history books. Cindy is inspired by talking with local people when travelling abroad experiencing different parts of the world, as well as herself.
Cindy’s previous articles may be found at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/cindy-cheng.html