Growing in Grace

Yesterday, someone close to me said something that really hurt me. It sent me into waves of confusion because this person had become very close and dear to me since the time that I arrived here. Yet, what this person said had so completely shaken my thoughts that I was shocked and baffled at the character that was shown through the words that were spoken. Without even thinking, I barked back but realized immediately that that was the wrong kind of response. Therefore, I softened my tone as I went on and even tried to add some humor into it. Thankfully, the other person didn't seem to be affected by it at all--but as for the hurtful comment that was given to me, it stayed on my mind all day. I finally gave it to the Lord in prayer that night and just this morning, He answered with me from Colossians 3:12-15:

“Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, accepting one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so also you must forgive. Above all, put on love—the perfect bond of unity. And let the peace of the Messiah, to which you were also called in one body, control your hearts. Be thankful.”

God is so faithful--He always encourages me right when I need it. I shouldn't forget the fact that before I came to Christ, I had so maliciously mistreated Him with words from my own mouth as well. Nevertheless, He has given us "redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace” (Ephesians 1:7). God is good, amen? Let us learn from the example that He has already set for us, and let us be quick to forgive, slow to speak, slow to anger, and be graceful with the tongue that God has given us.

"Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things should not be this way. Does a spring pour out sweet and bitter water from the same opening?" -James 3:10-11

I'm reminded of a lesson I learned in marriage and counseling (for the few days that I was in there). The instructor said that when your spouse suddenly speaks harshly to you, you should answer back with a gentle, softer tone to avoid unnecessary arguments. It surprises me sometimes how, if people would just read the Bible and live according to its principles, they would be able to exhibit such character that is often published in best-selling books today.