In response to a critic, former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill once replied, “We are all worms, but I do believe that I am a glow-worm.”
Today at a children’s soccer game I saw a very different, yet increasingly common, response to criticism. Rather than using humor or graciousness to diffuse a situation, a group of parents nearly stormed the field when a referee penalized a player on their team. When the player rudely talked back to the referee, the parents shouted, “Way to go! You were right, and you need to let that ref know it!” The more rudely the boy behaved, the louder the parents cheered and demonstrated complete ignorance and disregard of God’s basic command: “For the Lord’s sake, submit to all human authority” (1 Peter 2:13).
Though I haven’t (and hopefully never will!) speak disrespectfully to a referee, what I saw this morning caused me to reflect on ways that I—and other people—can be pursuing mature ways to react to misunderstandings.
Relying on the strength and grace Jesus has provided, let’s make it our goal to follow these biblical principles as we interact with others in person or via social media:
• Pursue holiness. This means using our bodies, especially our mouths that can form helpful or hurtful words, as “living and holy [sacrifices]” (Romans 12:1).
• Be humble and honest. “Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us” (Romans 12:3).
• Be considerate of other believers. For “we all belong to each other” (Romans 12:5).
Misunderstandings happen, but may our words and responses glow with the grace God has shown to us!
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Numbers 13:1–14:4
More:
Read Proverbs 19:11 and consider what it means to be a sensible person when it comes to addressing conflicts in your relationships.
Next:
Why is it vital to show respect to others as we interact with them, even when they’re not showing it to us? How can you be more considerate in the way you communicate today?
Gary Shultz on February 19, 2015 at 6:07 am
You are right, the kinder gentler attitude has died some time ago, at least here in the USA. It’s all about you(me) and violent, selfish, attitudes are out of control. I also agree we need to keep in check our attitudes, well , possibly better stated we need God’s attitude. I have also come to the conclusion that we were put here for a reason and I can easily identify troubles, problems, and ungodly living. Guess what(as you know) that’s why God put me here. We need to adjust our thinking to meet these kinds of people and show them God’s love. Easier said than done; however I need a plan that will give me grace, balance, understanding, with a mix of boldness so I can show an angry, self centered person what God may look like. To challenge anger will probably not lead to good results; however, we need people to see angers result. Ok this is long enough and you got the thought. Thanks
Tom Felten on February 19, 2015 at 9:54 am
Roxanne, I’ve coached many your soccer games over the years and have had the “joy” of having to remind parents of what is helpful and appropriate conduct during games. Not fun, but definitely necessary. When I think of parents (and others) who get out of control with words and behavior, I’m grateful for God’s provision of the Holy Spirit in the heart and lives of those who have received Jesus as Savior. The Spirit helps us pursue holiness, humility, honesty, and to be considerate of others. May we submit to His transforming work today! Galatians 5:16-25
Roxanne Robbins on February 19, 2015 at 2:05 pm
Well said, Gary and Tom. …Thus far, I haven’t been tempted to shout out at kids’ sporting events. I can always use reminders though to draw from the Holy Spirit so my words and reactions are gracious instead of harsh.
Winn Collier on March 5, 2015 at 11:09 am
“Being humble” – that virtue really can defuse a lot, can’t it?