Reflecting on Today’s Negative Culture and the Believer’s Calling
Introduction
If you’ve spent even a few minutes scrolling through social media or watching the news lately, you’ve probably felt a heaviness in your heart. Today’s culture seems more negative than ever, especially when it comes to how we speak to and about one another. Public discourse is often filled with harsh words, quick judgments, and an eagerness to tear others down. It’s easy to feel discouraged, but there’s hope—and a calling for us to be different.
The Ugliness of Public Discourse
Online platforms and comment sections have become battlegrounds where people discredit, judge, and attack each other—sometimes without even knowing the person on the other side of the screen. Destructive statements like “You’re just ignorant,” “People like you are the problem,” or “Go back to where you came from” pop up far too often. Racial prejudice, personal attacks, and the quick spread of misinformation are sadly common. Instead of respectful conversation, there’s labeling, shaming, and a rush to assume the worst about others.
- “You don’t belong here.”
- “Your opinion is stupid.”
- “You must be evil to think that way.”
- “You’re just a troll.”
- “I hope something bad happens to you.”
These statements do more than hurt feelings—they destroy trust, fuel division, and prevent real understanding. It’s a far cry from the compassion and kindness we all hope to see in the world.
Understanding “Crooked and Perverse Generation”
The Bible uses strong language to describe cultures that have lost their way, calling them “a crooked and perverse generation.” What does that mean? In simple terms, it’s a society where truth is twisted, morality is bent, and people turn away from God’s standards. Instead of seeking what’s right, people chase after what feels good, what’s popular, or what’s convenient—even if it means hurting others.
A “crooked” generation bends and distorts what’s true; a “perverse” generation goes even further, actively choosing what’s wrong and pushing back against what’s good. It’s a world where right and wrong are flipped, and where spiritual blindness keeps people from seeing the damage they’re causing.
Characteristics of a Crooked and Perverse Generation
- Twisted Morality: What used to be considered wrong is now celebrated, and what’s good is mocked or ignored.
- Deviation from Truth: Lies and half-truths spread faster than facts, and people would rather believe what suits their agenda.
- Widespread Immorality: Actions that harm others—whether through words or deeds—are seen as normal or even praised.
- Distorted Truth: The line between reality and opinion blurs, making it hard to know who or what to trust.
- Spiritual Blindness: Many are unable to see the deeper need for God, grace, and genuine love in their lives and interactions.
The Believer’s Role: Shining as Lights
In the midst of all this negativity, true believers have a unique and vital calling—to shine as lights in the darkness. This doesn’t mean living above others or acting self-righteous. Instead, it means living in a way that’s noticeably different: counter-cultural, compassionate, truthful, and just.
- Promoting Justice: Stand up for those who are marginalized, speak truth even when it’s unpopular, and show kindness in all interactions.
- Living Compassionately: Listen before judging, offer help instead of criticism, and choose words that heal rather than hurt.
- Being Peaceable and Blameless: Avoid unnecessary arguments, forgive quickly, and strive to live with integrity.
People are watching how we respond. Our actions and words can be a beacon of hope, showing that there’s a better way—a way rooted in God’s love and truth.
Encouragement: Perseverance and Reliance on Grace
It’s not easy to swim against the current of negativity. There will be times when you feel outnumbered or misunderstood. But don’t give up. Persevere, lean on God’s grace, and trust that your light matters. Even small acts of kindness or a gentle word can have a ripple effect.
Remember, you don’t have to be perfect to make a difference. God’s grace is enough to help you live peaceably, blamelessly, and courageously. Every day is a new opportunity to reflect His love and truth, even when the world seems crooked and perverse.
Conclusion: Shine in a Dark World
We can’t fix all the negativity overnight, but we can choose how we respond to it. Let’s commit to being positive examples—to shine as lights in a dark world. Whether online or in person, let’s lift others up, speak truth, and show compassion. In doing so, we help restore what’s broken and point others toward hope.
Let’s be the difference our culture so desperately needs—living out justice, truth, and grace in every conversation and every action.
Minister A Francine Green
January 2026
afrancinegreen.com 