Sunday, July 15, 2012

An Explanation

Hello, it's Brina. Most of you know by now that I have recently began to quit sarcasm. (Or at least try). I've been asked a few times now why I wish to quit and, though its a delayed response, I thought I should give a complete and somewhat articulate answer. For one, the conviction to watch my tongue was strong enough for me to reason, why not give up sarcasm? The convictions concerning sarcasm were so frequent I decided I didn't want to chance grieving the Holy Spirit--I might as well drop it. But here are some more explanatory answers:

1) You never know. Maybe that sarcasm could be misunderstood, offensive, annoying. Or, more importantly, the absence of sarcasm in my speech could lead to evangelism. If it ever gets noticed that I'm not sarcastic, that could lead to some pretty cool discussions about Christ, conviction, and the Holy Spirit. And, as I told Lily, if even one person notices it, I would consider this whole en-devour worthy.

2) Self control. Sarcasm makes some pretty good jokes and is a great way to point out theological flaws. But when I personally get angry, I use it as a weapon to damage others. While I understand the comedy in sarcasm, I've realized that if I want to cut out offensive sarcasm that slips out as an insult, I need to stomp it out altogether. I cannot be in the habit of blurting things out. This leads to Reason # 3: I honestly just need more patience. I've realized this especially in the last week, when my temper was severely challenged. To me, quitting sarcasm is only part of the larger issue. I'm teaching my slippery tongue self-control--and trust me, its hard. Anger has a way of inflaming your mind and badgering reason; pride puffs up the image and justifies cruel words. But I don't want to be ordered by that anger anymore. Today its sarcasm; today I will try to ditch it.

Another point should be made here. At Church, while conversing, I made a flippant sarcastic remark and immediately apologized. Avery then said, "You don't have to apologize." (Thank you, Avery :). Well, understand that when I apologize, I'm really calling myself out, catching the sarcasm in order to refrain the next time. Sorry if it annoys you.

So here are my reasons. I don't want to say that sarcasm is evil or wrong, because it isn't (though it is easily abused.) I'm not judging the sarcastic; I actually love and am amused by sarcasm. If you feel convicted by these thoughts, pray over it with God and ask Him about it, since ultimately, all lasting change comes from Him alone. Also, I wouldn't mind some prayer on this matter; its quite a struggle to remember and act upon all I've said. In the end, our goal as Christians is to glorify God; and I feel this might please Him.
(By the way, Anna also had the same conviction about sarcasm, before me I believe. She spurred me on into action; but I'm not speaking for her in my description of my motivation. Ask her yourself why she's quitting, and pray for her also.) Comment your thoughts in the description.

I love you guys!
-Brina
It is my God who arms me with strength and makes me ways perfect. - 2nd Samuel 22:33