It Depends On Me!

In Romans 12:3-5, 10 Paul told the church in Rome that we need to show affection to one another with brotherly love. In fact, he said "Outdo one another in showing honor." But, if we're honest, reaching out with the love of Christ is sometimes a major challenge because we're all different and differences can breed conflict. Many conflicts could be avoided if we just stepped back, counted to 10 (or 3 or 4) and conceded our right to be right. Getting rid of self is not an easy process. It takes constant work. Cindy Wood says that "when I become preoccupied with my way, my feelings, my rights, then my energy is drained and my peace slips away. But when I make a conscious and deliberate choice to put me out of the way, then I can more easily turn the situation over to Jesus and let him handle it."

When you are a bundle of nerves and you feel your "self feelings" are justified, it is hard to get rid of self. Cindy says to remember that by giving up yourself, you are in no way justifying another person's behavior. You're just following scripture that says to "bless those who persecute you...if possible, live at peace with everyone."

Is there someone in your life, your neighborhood, your church family or anywhere that could use a little appreciation and kindness? Try not to let them get you angry or frazzled. Instead, try to show them God's love. In the process you'll feel less frazzled and more loveable yourself.