So much of what we do shapes us to live as bystanders.
We track the news...
We follow sports...
We watch videos and movies...
... All passive activities which tend to keep us on the sidelines of life.
Any of these may have their place.
But here is the main thing:
God didn't create us to be mere bystanders.
He made us to engage what's happening around us as participants.... and have an effect with our gifts and opportunities.
One of the strongest scriptures on this comes from Proverbs 24:10-12:
If you faint in the day of adversity,
Your strength is small.
Deliver those who are drawn toward death,
And hold back those stumbling to the slaughter.
If you say, “Surely we did not know this,”
Does not He who weighs the hearts consider it?
He who keeps your soul, does He not know it?
And will He not render to each man according to his deeds?
God makes it clear...
We can't ignore what's going on around us. Particularly the evil.
And we can't plead ignorance either... moving along as if we didn't know.
The Bible summons us to engage what's calling for attention in our midst...
... as it may be a matter of life and death for some!
So ask God today...
Lord, how can I be less of a bystander and more of an engaged participant in the circumstances you're putting before me?