Scripture Study
“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” — Romans 12:17–18
Recently, God has been asking me to take a look at my actions and attitudes. It has been difficult. It’s not fun having God point things out to you and realizing that you need to work on them. But the more I think about it, the more I realize that I really do need to do better in certain areas. Looking back, I can see how some of my actions and attitudes have caused damage. Even though it was unintentional, it still doesn’t feel good.
It hasn’t been all bad. God has graciously also shown me ways that I need to think differently about things I took as negative but were really God using me to work for the good of others.
Overall, it has been a change in perspective—trying to see things the way God sees them and the way God sees me as well.
The Intersection Incident
The other day, I was driving and came to an intersection where there isn’t a lot of room. There was a vehicle that wanted to come down the road I was on, but because it was a bigger vehicle, there was no way it was going to make the turn with me there.
I was coming out of a side street, and in my mind, it would have made sense to let me pull out, which would have cleared the way for them to pull in. Instead, they started to pull in, which forced me to back up down the street until I could find enough room to pull off to the side.
When I got out of the way, I looked up, fully expecting a courtesy wave as if to say, “Thank you for moving.”
They never even looked my way. They just kept driving.
In my head, I thought, Wow, no wave? And I sarcastically said out loud, “You’re welcome.”
Then I was immediately reminded by God that my actions should not depend on the other person’s response. My actions should reflect Christ.
Who Controls Your Behavior?
How often do we let someone else’s behavior determine ours?
If they respect me, I’ll respect them.
If my wife treats me well, I’ll treat her well.
If my kids listen, I’ll be patient.
If my coworker appreciates me, I’ll help them.
Without realizing it, we’re allowing someone else to determine what kind of man we’re going to be.
Choosing to Reflect Christ
This week, pay attention to the moments when someone else’s actions begin to determine yours. Before you respond, stop and ask yourself:
Am I responding to this person based on what they did, or am I responding in a way that reflects Christ?
Have a great day in Christ,
Matt
