Words Gone Public

We live in a time when anyone can publish their thoughts.  In the push of a button, our words and sentiments can go public.  But is this a good thing?  Well, it depends...do you give much thought about the impact of your words before you shoot them out into the cyber-world like an arrow?  The Bible teaches us that words have the power of life and death.  With that kind of impact, perhaps we should carefully consider our words before allowing them to go public.

With that in mind, I give you the following thoughts on social networks and media, specifically blogging, Tweeter, and Facebook.

1. They are spiritually and theologically neutral.
2. They can be used for either good or evil.  Remember, words have the power of life and death...and you will have to give an account for every word you utter and put in print (see Matthew 12:36-37).  Thus, communicate wisely.
3. They are tools.  Redeem them for good.  Glorify God with your words.  (Mark Driscoll, when considering various elements of culture, says we can reject, receive, or redeem it.  Here is an opportunity to use something neutral for good).
4. Leverage tools and technology to influence others for good (see Ephesians 4:25-32).  Encourage, inspire, and bring hope with your ability to communicate.  
5. Once you have said it, sent it, posted it, etc...it is out there.  Remember--"Just because you can doesn't mean you should."
6. Gospel others as much as possible!  Bring good news when ever possible.  You need it and others need it as well.
7. Follow the advice of James:  "be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger."  When angry or upset--take time to PAUSE before sending or saying something stupid and damaging.

It is easy to go public with your words...harder, yet wiser, is to hold your tongue, limit your rants, and speak words of life.

Are you leaving a Godly legacy with your words?  Are you ready to give an account for what you have said today?

Martin Luther King "I have a dream"

Creative Types: Embrace Chaos | Malcolm Gladwell | Big Think

Creative Types: Embrace Chaos | Malcolm Gladwell | Big Think

What Is a Generosity Theology? | The Resurgence

What Is a Generosity Theology? | The Resurgence

What are your thoughts on giving? What would you do if you had $1,000,000?

Piper from Trout Lake 1/12/2011

First Flight

I recently had the opportunity to spend a few hours in Kitty Hawk on New Year's Day.  We were on the way home following a few days in Buxton, NC near the Cape Hatteras lighthouse.  Short for time because it was Saturday and I had to get back to prepare to preach the following day, I was a bit anxious.  Having to paid $4 a person to get in did not help matters.  In fact, I told a friend while we were waiting for our wives, "we are not going to get our money's worth at this stop!"  He replied with "No?"  At that moment his buddy rounded the corner to my surprise.  Turns out he had just landed his small plane and my friend, Jeff, had arranged a flight over the Kitty Hawk area for us!  Awesome!  I even got the opportunity to manage the controls briefly.  Best part of the trip by far!

I was overwhelmed at the thought of flying over the area where the Wright brothers made the first flight in history.  It inspired a few thoughts on explorers:

1. They are willing to take a risk.  In a word:  Courageous.
2. They are persistent.
3. They are creative.
4. They are curious.
5. They are optimistic.

To explore means:  1. to examine (something) carefully; investigate.  2. to travel (in a little known region) for discovery.

What does your attitude toward exploration look like?  What is your desire toward discovery?  Do you hunger and thirst for the things of God?  What legacy or monuments will you leave behind for others to follow?  Will you inspire others to explore the things of God?

Make 2011 a year of adventure!  Stretch your faith.  Press into Truth.  Be available for friendship.  Serve beyond the level of convenience.  Strive for satisfaction in Jesus Christ!