Real Hope: Opinion & DisagreementSample

The Guide To Opinion

I wonder if Jesus would use these same words to describe us, the modern-day disciples: ‘They didn’t join the world’s ways,’ and, ‘They are not defined by the world.’ What a compliment that would be.

Today, with the click of a few buttons and keyboard strokes we can post our opinion for all to see. In the same breath, we can respond to another’s post. In this instant, non-accountable online world of ‘I’ll say what I want, and you can’t stop me’ culture, does opinion matter? Does it have weight or voice to it?

Like me, you may have experienced that these opinions do more harm than good. So how do we respond to people’s opinions that may invade our interactions and pollute our water-cooler moments? Opinions on politics, religion, sport, the pandemic or even at times the clothes you wear.

In these moments, partner with the ultimate guide. Jesus said, ‘But when He the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth’ (John 16:13a). With Him at your side, you may choose to engage, stay silent, agree, disagree, ask a clarifying question, or try to better understand the context. In the end, we must ask ourselves if we are trying to be more like the world or are we trying to be more like our Saviour who only said and did as His heavenly Father required of Him. ‘If I am not different from the world, then I have not much substance to offer the world.’

Written by DRUVI PERERA