Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.
Ephesians 5:11 ESV
This anecdote may be extreme, but I must admit, I find it amusing!
A Muslim cleric in northern Iran has complained that a woman attacked him after he chastised her for dressing too immodestly. According to the report filed with a state-run news agency, cleric Hojatoleslam Ali Beheshti demanded a local woman from the town of Shahmirzad cover herself up as the two passed each other on the street. The report claims the woman replied, “You, cover your eyes,” before she shoved him down and began kicking him.
Can’t you feel years of pent up rage in this woman’s behavior? This was the straw that broke the camel’s back even though her actions probably cost her a great deal in that culture. Imagine the chaos and fear when a society tolerates injustice, rudeness and disrespect. Is there a time to fight back? When is enough—enough?
Do you remember the Just Say No campaign introduced by Nancy Reagan during her husband’s presidency? Her efforts increased public awareness of drug use. Even though critics argued that the solution was reduced to a catch phrase, according to research conducted by the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan, the use and abuse of illegal recreational drugs declined significantly during the Reagan presidency.
How could murmuring to myself, Just Say No, help me fight back appropriately? I am certainly not recommending kicking; however, there are times I do need to speak up! I am told in this verse that I am to expose the works of darkness. Just Say No reminds me to stay alert and not overlook or ignore what is wrong. Just Say No moves me to action to stop abusive, rude, and disrespectful behavior going on in my presence. Just Say No ultimately changes me, those around me and the status quo—and that is how I can make a significant difference!