Be Real You may be thriving socially, but where are you spiritually? 1. Do we focus on our followers or who we should be following "One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than brother." Proverbs 18:24 If we sought Jesus as much as we sought after followers, friends, etc. could you imagine how much stronger our relationship would be? If we spent the time we spend scrolling praying or in the word, how much STRONGER would/could our relationship with God be? 2. Hiding behind the filter "For you created my inner being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that fully well" Psalm 139:13-1 Social Media Only shows parts of the (your) story. Try to see filters for what they are—a fun tool to make yourself look different online, but not something that’s necessary to recreate who you are. 3. You wouldn’t say that to my face! "Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love." Ephesians 4:15-16 To speak the truth in love includes how Christians communicate with believers and unbelievers alike. Believers are called to live in harmony with one another as a family. What does this mean for us? 1. We should be finding our friend in Jesus, He will bring the people that matter into our lives. 2. We have to be what God calls us to be, not what the world WANTS us to be. 3. Understand that we can’t control what others say or do, but we can control what leaves our mouths and our own actions. "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry." James 1:19 _________________________ Decision Form September Reading Plan Join us for Hope Connect.