The Wrong Emoji

 

By Andrea Merrell

Be happy with those who are happy, 

and weep with those who weep.

Romans 12:15 NLT

Emojis are everywhere. They have infiltrated our technology, and we all love and use them. There is an emoji for just about anything you can imagine—from love to tears to shock to anger to prayer and everything in between. We like to choose our favorites when responding to a text, post, or email.

But have you ever inserted the wrong one?

I have a friend who accidentally inserted a laughing face when responding to a very serious situation and prayer request, causing confusion and hurt feelings.

It made me think about how important it is to respond and share our feelings with others in the right way, both in our words and body language. It can be very hard to read someone and know what’s really in their heart.

The Bible tells us to be happy with those who are happy. To rejoice and celebrate with them. To share their joy. It also tells us to weep with those who weep. To empathize with them. To share their sorrow.

In a cruel world full of insensitivity, it’s critical for believers to let the love of God flow through us to others.

The next time you respond to someone—whether through technology or face-to-face—make sure you convey the right message.

 Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net and farconville.