A few days ago I apparently got a
splinter in the palm of my hand. I didn't even notice when, where, or how it
happened. Today I woke up with pain, redness, and puss surrounding the
splinter. I got out the needle, knife, tweezers, and antibiotic and went to
work. In no time I had the splinter out, antibiotic applied and a Band-Aid to
keep infection out. It was only a minor thing when it started but turned into a
“hurt” because I left it untreated. It reminded me of what sometimes happens in
people, churches, families, and workplaces, when something small can turn into
a big “hurt.”
God's word is full of ways to
interact with people to prevent these feelings from happening. Consider a few
verses: Philippians 2:3-4 “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but
with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves. Do
not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests
of others.” When you start seeing what other people endure (walk a mile in
their shoes), you will be better able to understand what may cause a reaction
in them. Jesus was perfect at seeing “hurting” people and ministering to those
needs. We need to learn to see the world through His eyes.
Matthew 7:12 “In everything,
therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is
the Law and the Prophets.” Jesus knew if we “love others the way we love
ourselves”, the world would be a better place. He also knew we might sometimes
hurt others, I think this is why His forgiveness to us, and ours to others is
such an important practice for Christians. Matthew 6:14 “For if you forgive
others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”
This is why I have had to seek out brothers and sisters that I have wronged and
apologize for my actions. This verse reminds us of our flaws and failures but
mostly it reminds us of His grace.
So if you want to be restored to
fellowship with a dear friend take this time to practice God's perfect
forgiveness. Or you could just not do anything and let that wound continue
until your hand is so festered and infected like mine was, that it can never be
restored to usefulness. I hope you choose “love.”
—Alan
No comments:
Post a Comment