Woke

prejudice and racial hatred (Prov 4:23; Jer 17:9).  Real change and real answers to the problems of racism, injustice, and other societal evils are found in the commands and principles of God’s Word.

Often, what is considered as woke is a new liberal 'progressive' practice that is introduced and embraced as a replacement for an old more conservative moral view. This DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) approach has included transgenderism, same-sex marriage, climate alarmism, abortion, and Critical Race Theory.  Accusing society of its intolerance is a ploy increasingly used by groups such as the LGBT's to condemn those who disagree with evolving values, get these views heard and so gain acceptance. Consistently the majority of any population ignores the hurting demoralised marginalized minority, spreading inaccurate information that is offensive which hurts those discriminated against. When someone stands up in their defense by challenging and calling out wrong behaviour, the response is typically not an apology, but an outright dismissal claiming this whistle-blower is over-sensitive, irrational or controlling. Critical, uncomplimentary and judgmental remarks only inflame situations, so unless helpful and uplifting words are spoken without prejudice it is better not said. While there is a time and place to speak the truth in a loving constructive manner when necessary, it must come from the right attitude while also being prepared for any negative reaction this may cause.

attention to the marginalised, vulnerable, disadvantaged and those overlooked in society. He interacted with and ministered to the Samaritans, the lepers, the sick, the poor and needy – people who were humble enough to ‘own’ their predicament in life. He accepted them, provided assistance and stood up for those in need. The result was they responded to His message. He was a “friend of sinners”, these who were unaccepted by socially; not that He approved of or entered into their ungodly lifestyles but this was so He could lift them out of their destructive way of life (Lk 7:34, 15:2). The words Jesus spoke to the woman caught in adultery were, “I do not condemn you. Go and leave your life of sin” (Jn 8:3-11). His actions demonstrated the importance of embracing all individuals, regardless of societal prejudices, backgrounds, races, and gender (Mt 11:19; Jn 4:9). We are to be tolerant and accepting, while not condemning, condoning or compromising on Godly values. God's standards do not evolve over time. The Bible, and its message always remain constant and i what we will be judged by.

The ongoing message is we are to “Love our neighbour as ourselves” (Mk 12:31). To be genuine this means caring enough to act, “Doing to others as we would they do to us” (Lk 6:31; Jas 2:16,17). Jesus also said, “A new command I give you: Love one another” (Jn 13:34,35).  This is desiring their highest and best interests through empathy, understanding, and treating them with kindness and respect. We should not be selective in those we help, for by expressing good will and meeting the needs of even the least we do it unto Him, and will be how God judges us (Mt 25:31-46). Hence do not live isolated from those who also can become part of God’s family, but as appropriate interact in their lives (without embracing their way of life) and show ‘Christ’ to them so you can bring them into the Kingdom.

See also: discrimination, equality, golden rule, hurts, injustice, justice, political correctness, prejudice, race/racism, respect, rights (human), speech, victim.