Do you push back against everything you consider to be false, or do you pick your battles? There is an understandable impulse to respond to every false expression, but you may encounter too many to refute. Consider the example of my own life. I faced false accusations that I challenged, such as the time that I was accused of being demon possessed. But when I was on trial for my life I remained silent in the face of false witnesses. Statements by those who are wrong do not compel you to answer. You can choose a receptive time to speak the truth, and be proactive rather than reactive.

Do you hear the term ‘narcissism’ more frequently these days? Do you think this problem is becoming more prevalent, or is the term just coming into more widespread use? Selfishness as a part of the human condition is nothing new, but the public manifestation of it can increase or decline. If you know that narcissism is bad, then what is the opposite quality you should strive for? The human condition also includes a longing for self-transcendence. Don’t you identify with a desire to move beyond your own self-interest? Can you get there on your own?

Do you understand that you bear the responsibility for what you say? Blessed are those who speak in such a way that they are prepared to stand by what they say. Do you apply a lower standard to words of others that you repeat? Does it make it easier to speak ill-considered or imprudent words if you can attribute them to someone else? Yet if they come out of your mouth you have made them your own. Have you heard of statements referred to as not worth repeating? There is a valid basis for this sentiment. But  there also are words that are worth repeating.

Are you an evangelist? Some believers think of this as a special office that does not apply to them, but my Great Commission was given to all who would follow me. Yet this is not limited to proselyting for the faith. It is the inescapable condition of humanity. Everyone has something they are enthusiastic about. It may be the way they earn their living, or their favorite team or hobby. This is their preferred subject of conversation, and even without intending to they argue on behalf of the value of their interest. So the question isn’t whether or not you are an evangelist, but what for.