When we post, we have a choice: Are we responding in love? We might say things that are biblically correct or defend our faith, but when there is no love and acceptance underlying our words, we are nothing but a clanging cymbal.
Our words represent our heart. Pride, self-justification and the need of approval from others seep into our posts and responses.
I know I have not always responded on CC with patience, love, or kindness and have allowed my "self" to get in the way. What's more important is that we sit back and allow God to examine our heart. Usually when I do this, I'm disgusted in what is found within me.
We do not know what people face in their lives. Some people come here to find true fellowship. Instead, they find themselves judged and deemed to not "fit in" with the members here for numerous reasons. Its easy to fall into the trap of going along with the crowd, whether on CC or in the world. I'm just as guilty of this as anyone else... and Im working on this.
I continually remind myself that the world's definition of strength and confidence are very different from heaven's definition.
The bottom line, for me, is that I need to humble myself, put others above me, examine my true motives, exercise self-control, and do my best to be a light. Whether this is acknowledged or approved by others is irrelevant. His approval is the only one that truly matters.