All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal.
PSALM 119:160
In our society, the distinction between right and wrong has been grossly diluted. Celebrities have replaced God as a moral compass. Television, the big screen, and radio deliver the “sermons” that frame our worldview. Social, political, and educational policies have bowed to political correctness, encouraging us not only to accept ungodly practices but at times to celebrate them. As a result, our society lacks a true source of strength with which to live, goodness by which to live, and freedom in which to live.
I was powerfully reminded of this reality after speaking at a conference in Victoria, Australia. I had just finished when I turned to see a very nervous young woman standing behind me. My heart melted as I saw the deep pain in her eyes. We started to talk about life.
I quickly established that Rachel was not a Christian and that her mother forced her to come to the conference. She had lived a wild life for someone so young, and the scars of rejection, bitterness, hurt, and loneliness were already evident.
After about an hour, Rachel stated, “I had an abortion two weeks ago, and my boyfriend has left me.” As we talked for a while longer, I realized her main concern was not the fact she had aborted a child, but rather, that she no longer had a boyfriend. I asked her, “Rachel, do you think you did anything wrong when you had the abortion?” She looked at me like I was crazy. “Of course not! What else could I have done? After all, I really want to travel.”
I am not suggesting that all young people hold Rachel’s view about abortion. Her story does, however, provide us with insight. Many in our society have little or no point of reference for distinguishing between right and wrong.
Some of you may be thinking, “Can we really make a difference?” I believe the answer is yes, but that difference will never be made by judging others or condemning a broken world; it will be made by loving the lost and living out God’s truth in our own lives.
Let’s ensure people can see the difference Jesus makes in our lives.
MOMENT OF REFLECTION
To make a difference in the world, how will you communicate God’s ideas of right and wrong?