As a parent of 22 children, I have certainly been wronged a time or two.  I have to say that lying, stealing, and disrespect are the top 3 behaviors I struggle to respond well to.  It may have something to do with the fact of entering high school at 4′ 10″ and under 100 pounds and getting bullied.  When people are disrespected in this way, my blood wants to boil and my mouth wants its revenge. 

God’s word is clear that instead of coming down harshly using God’s word as a justifying hammer, we are to respond with gentleness. If you’re mind is already saying “but…” like mine was, go back and read the passage again. This time maybe you also caught the word patient. So we have to be patient and gentle?  That’s not fair!  Your right it’s not fair, it’s mercy!

Have you ever considered that our acts of mercy have the power to point to the ultimate act of mercy at the cross?   That perhaps what is needed in the situation is a patient, loving explanation?  As I write these words, my heart is pierced itself, knowing I need more Jesus in this area. 

Logically speaking, your not going to win a battle of words with a bully or a slanderer.  But love has the power to make the mouth stop long enough for the heart to listen.  Our end goal isn’t to be in control, be right, or be a better wordsmith.  Our desire should be that God would grant repentance and lead them to the truth about Jesus Christ and His finished work at the cross.  We must love them in spite of our shortcomings and reactions to the words c?oming out of their mouths.  We must love them as God does!

#truthtalk4life #knowlivespeaktruthinlove

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@brianfriedl