Sometimes it’s the small things that make an impression.
A couple of days ago I was ordering lunch with a small group of friends at a local fast-food restaurant. The lady in front of me was ordering for herself and her two children. There were multiple lines with approximately 20 people doing the same thing, so practicing the virtue of patience is necessary during any lunch rush.
Just as she was finishing up and about to pay she turned to her friend standing in another line, three or four people back, and asked her what she and her kids wanted to eat. Her friend said, ‘Oh no, we are good.’ Yet the lady ahead of me said, ‘C’mon. Tell me what you want; it’s fine.’ So the other lady and her children cut in front of us as though we were invisible.
As I listened to the conversation between the two friends, God chose that moment to whisper in my ear, ‘Don’t say a word. Keep your lips sealed and your spirit sweet.’
Tweet ThisProverbs 21:23 tells us to, “Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.”
Even though there was a lack of consideration and selfishness on their part, I knew my response would be what mattered to God.
Had they asked me I would have been happy to have let them go ahead of us. I just didn’t get the opportunity because they made the decision for me.
It would have been so easy to respond negatively, but that was not the time or place, nor the example that God wanted me to be.
When life’s little inconveniences occur I am so thankful that my Heavenly Father equips me with more grace than I am humanly capable of on my own.
I am reminded in James 4:6, But He gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
As Christians we are challenged every day to be an example to others and to treat others the way we want to be treated. We may be treated less than we want, but the way we respond to others comes from us wanting to be more like Jesus Christ.
When rude and selfishness rear their ugly heads I always go back to one of my favorite verses, Ephesians 4:32. I can tell how many times I’ve read this verse based on the highlights and how many times it’s been dated in the margin. It says,
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Things won’t always go like we want, but it’s our attitude that makes the difference. We can learn valuable lessons from complete strangers, and in turn model for others the way people should be treated.
Have you dealt with a situation that caused you to think about your response? How did you handle it? I know I’m thankful for a God who I can trust in all situations and who I know will never steer me wrong. I would love for you to share your thoughts with me.
Blessings & Hugs for a great week ahead.
Mitzi
I needed to hear this gentle reminder today! Just yesterday I was in a situation where I could’ve easily been ‘offended’, and my mind began formulating the perfect response to this person. I often do that. Think for a while about exactly what I can say that will get my point across. I’m so thankful for your post today! God is more interested in how we respond. Yes! Sometimes the best response is none at all:) Have a blessed day, friend!
Thank you Kristine! I can tell you I formulated a response or two myself but knew my actions could cause a bigger problem. Attitude is everything…..and we never know who is watching. Have a great week.
Yes, this word touched home for me. I have a friend that says we have to learn to “zip our lip!” We have many opportunities each day to show kindness and patience to those around us. Thank you for sharing and inspiring us!
Thank you so much for your encourging words. It is part of my mission to share kindness everywhere I go. This dark world needs more kindness, understanding, and unconditional love than ever before.