Today, I awoke with the intention of being spiteful, aiming to teach someone else a lesson, only to learn one myself. That lesson was: "Do not set a trap for another, lest you fall into it yourself." Indeed, I am aware of the story of Haman and Mordecai from the Book of Esther, yet in that moment, my emotions overwhelmed me. I was so eager to impart a lesson, forgetting that it is not my place, but my Father's, to do so. I overlooked the fact that my actions were considered sinful.
I always strive for authenticity in my faith journey with Christ Jesus. Life is challenging, and sometimes it feels even more so when following Jesus. Yet, it's important to recognize the peace that comes with Christ. By entrusting Him with all your heart & life, you can be assured that He will safeguard it throughout your journey with Him.
Now, the book of Proverbs addresses this in its very first chapter. Reflecting on my (not too long ago) past actions, I realize that this knowledge comes after the fact. A lesson has certainly been learned. I quickly understood that due to my emotions—my flesh, which I had indulged—I was the one who needed to learn. Before I share what, I've learned, I'll mention that the scripture that now comes to mind is Matthew 7:3-5, which talks about noticing the speck in another's eye but ignoring the plank in your own. I saw an issue with a particular person and really wanted to fix it my way, but I never acknowledged my own faults—thankfully, the Holy Spirit corrected me.
What I have learned is that I need to remember who I am in Christ and that my emotions do not drive me but rather what God expects of me. The thoughts and emotions I experience should at all times be brought under the dominion of He Who is my Savior. It is tough in the moment yes, but when you actually seek the counsel of our Father, He is truly faithful to answer.
Secondly, as the title of this post already suggests, and I will reiterate; desiring to spite another will ultimately lead to spiting oneself. It may not be immediate for some of us, but it will happen eventually. Regardless of how upsetting or stressful situations may be, we must remember to act in love, following Him Who is Love.
We must be reminded that there will be times when we step out of line and act or react sinfully. We are not perfect. However, we are set apart and deeply loved; our Father simply wants us to be genuine with Him. We need to truly repent and do our utmost to remain focused on Jesus. The more we concentrate on Him, the more aware we become of our actions and reactions.
The Word of God guides us in understanding the path we should follow at all times, without exception.
In this case: Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with one another and forgive on another. If any of you has grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord has forgiven you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Colossians 3 verse 12-14.
As I share this with you, let us together do the right thing according to God's command.
Important to remember...
🎀God has chosen us, set us apart, and loves us immensely.
🎀We are instructed to clothe ourselves, not only to dress our exterior but also our interior with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, and to do all this in love.
🎀Without love, I believe the above is genuinely not possible. Love binds all these qualities together and keeps them intact.
🎀Bearing with one another, even when we do not agree on everything.
🎀Being forgiving - to ourselves as well - remember that God has already forgiven you: Have you forgiven yourself? God has forgiven them; have you forgiven them?
In conclusion, let us strive to walk in the love of our Savior, Jesus Christ, for through Him, all things are possible.
Be blessed & be a blessing.
🤍
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