By Gigi Kotze
09/10/2025
We live in an age where information travels faster than ever before. Every day, our feeds and screens are flooded with breaking stories, headlines, and updates from across the globe. For many, this constant stream of news can feel overwhelming or even paralysing.
But as followers of Jesus, we are not called to disengage nor be swept away by fear. Instead, we can approach global news with attentiveness, discernment, and faith. Here are three simple steps to help us read the news as Christians: Observe, Interpret, and Respond.
Step 1: Observe – See What Is Happening
The first step is simply to pay attention. Too often, we skim headlines without really grasping what is happening. Instead, approach the news with attentiveness, not passivity.
Ask the basic questions that good journalists ask: Who is involved? What happened? Where is it taking place? When did it occur? How did it unfold? Why does it matter?
Look beyond sensationalist headlines. Seek reliable sources and don’t settle for clickbait. Compare different outlets to ensure accuracy, and ask yourself: Is this fact, opinion, or speculation? By doing so, you begin to discern what the story is really about — not just what others want to emphasise.
“Be alert and of sober mind.” (1 Peter 5:8) This verse reminds us to stay watchful and grounded, not careless or easily swayed. Reading the news as a Christian begins with careful observation.
Step 2: Interpret – View Through a Biblical Lens
Once you understand what has happened, the next step is to interpret the event in light of God’s Word. Ask: What does Scripture say about this?
Every event we read about either reflects the brokenness of our fallen world (sin, injustice, suffering) or reveals God’s ongoing purposes (the growth of His Church, opportunities for the Gospel, reminders of His sovereignty).
The news is not just random; it is part of a bigger story — the unfolding of God’s Kingdom across the nations. Anchoring ourselves in this truth prevents us from sinking into fear, anger, or hopelessness. Instead, we learn to view events with an eternal perspective.
Some passages to frame your thinking might be:
- Wars and conflict: Matthew 24 reminds us that these things will come, but they are not the end.
- Suffering and pain: Romans 8 speaks of creation groaning, while also assuring us of future glory.
- Mission opportunities: Matthew 28 reminds us of the Great Commission — the call to make disciples of all nations.
“From Issachar, men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do” (1 Chronicles 12:32). Like the men of Issachar, God calls us to discernment — to understand the times, not just to know the facts, but to grasp their meaning in His greater plan.
Step 3: Respond – Pray, Act, Share Hope
Finally, Christians are not called to simply consume news — we are called to respond. Awareness should always lead to Christlike action.
- Pray: Every news story can become a prayer point. Pray for nations, leaders, victims, and the global Church. Ask for God’s justice, mercy, and the advance of the Gospel.
- Act: Support mission organisations, give to relief efforts, advocate for the vulnerable, or volunteer in practical ways. Even small actions matter.
- Share Hope: In conversations and online spaces, be a voice of encouragement. Share God’s perspective instead of feeding despair. Offer light in a world often clouded by fear.
Ask yourself: What is one small step I can take in response to this story? By doing so, you become not just a reader of the news, but a bearer of Christ’s hope. “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
The world tells stories of chaos and despair, but as Christians, we know a greater story — one of redemption and hope in Christ. When we observe carefully, interpret biblically, and respond faithfully, we learn to read the news not as a stream of fear-filled headlines, but as an invitation to prayer, action, and deeper trust in God’s sovereignty. Ultimately, it is all about God and what He is doing!
