Have our egos become so fragile that popcorn lovers can’t tolerate a social media comment saying, “Ugh! Buttered popcorn is the worst!” Many people are offended these days if you disagree with them about anything on social media. Some send messages asking you not to post a comment if you disagree with their words. Some delete your words. Some delete you.

But what about when we we have something to offer that could help someone in a life or death situation? What happens when a friend is discussing a hiking trail, and you mention the fact that bears are known to frequent the trail? Your friend wants to focus on the beauty of the trail and how far and fast he can hike, so he asks you to please refrain from mentioning bears. When you say you’re concerned for his safety, he tells you bears make him nervous. He asks you to remove yourself from the discussion. He’s more interested in looking like a hiking expert. He’d rather hike in denial, without being prepared for any emergency situations along the way. Is our own selfish, prideful reputation worth holding onto…even if it means being attacked by a bear? 

People tend to act like this when they are struggling with sin and don’t want to admit it. It can get uncomfortable when The Holy Spirit convicts hearts. When people are more concerned with self-perception than truth, it’s a problem God wants to fix. Most people would rather have their egos stroked with hollow compliments, than make room for God’s holy scriptures. They would rather push their own agendas, than humble themselves in order to grow, learn, and be blessed in Christ. Most people would simply rather continue living in denial, than accept the fact that we ALL need to repent, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” ( Rom. 3:23 Holman Christian Standard Bible). God knows we ALL need a savior to redeem us and save our souls! Eternal lives are at stake!  

Truth trumps lies. Though many people look for the world’s approval, Christians can serve The Lord, and be a light, simply by seeking God’s approval, and no other. “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10 English Standard Version).  

Climb out of your bear’s den, open your eyes wide to the truth, and get ready to explore the trail of healing and freedom that lies before you!