So, here we are. We just went through a political battle for the President. The holidays are staring us in the face and people, in general, are just tired. Not everyone’s favorite college football teams are living up to the hype and that is frustrating. Opinions are as numerous as the stars in the sky. It’s easy, right now, to become a little cranky and speak your mind. This, however, does not exactly bring the temperature down. It actually fuels the fire. Now you’re adding more stress because of the disagreements you’re finding yourself engaged in. Sometimes it feels like we’re living in an old fashioned pinball machine. You just keep bumping into one thing after another.
Life can be challenging. Let me restate that. Life is challenging! How we respond to real life situations is extremely important. I’ve always heard it said, “you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar.” Did you know that The Bible has something to say extremely similar to that? “Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.“ (Proverbs 16:24 NLT) Kindness attracts people. Being sweet to people at the family dinners brings so much more peace and eliminates the chaos. It creates a healthy environment. Whoever you may not agree with is not your enemy. People are valued treasures to The Lord. ”For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.“ (Ephesians 6:12 NLT) I know that sounds a little complicated, but basically, this scripture is telling us that human beings are not who we’re fighting with. We are fighting against an evil adversary that’s trying to divide people God loves.
When we realize what the enemy wants to do to our relationships, we start being conscious of our response. Jesus said, “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.“ (John 10:10 NLT) So, are we going to agree with everything that is said at our office, homes and churches? No. People are different and we all have our own opinions. Having said that, does God value every person that walks through those doors? Yes! If He values them, we should value them. It does not mean you can’t disagree. It just means that you treat folks with respect and kindness in the midst of our differences. You deal with differences differently. ”Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.“ (Ephesians 4:29 NLT) In this way, you will be representing Jesus and handling situations that arise with integrity.
It’s very hard whenever you have a conflict of interest with someone to not let the conversation escalate into an argument. It’s especially hard if both sides are passionate about their stance. Take a moment. Pause. Remember that this is an opportunity to show a different way than the world says to handle it. Try to not see the difference in the other person as the main issue. See the value of the individual and treat them the way that honors The Lord.
Today’s writer is Brandi Crowe. A hairdresser for over 25 years, she is currently the owner of Brandi Crowe salon in Buford, GA. She loves hiking, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends. Brandi lives in a custom farmhouse with her husband Robby and cat Harold.
