2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Daniel 7-8 GW; James 3 GW
Tongues praise and curse.
One minute we’re praising God; the next moment, cursing people. More times than I’d like to admit, I’ve had people say this to me. “God doesn’t know them like I do.” Typically, these words come after I remind them, “God loves whoever too.” When someone has hurt us, the last thing we want to think about is God’s affection for them. After all, how could God cherish someone who caused us pain? The answer is simple because He created them.
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27 NIV)
What I’ve learned about difficult people in my life, they are the ones God uses to grow me. Loving people you like is easy; however, caring for those who annoy you, not so much. Obedience to God requires loving people. God created us in His image, but each of us has a unique personality. The challenge comes in showing affection for those opposite of us.
Keep a soft heart.
Recently, my therapist gave me a new prayer. We were discussing someone whose actions aren’t lovely towards me. Understanding this person is operating from a place of pain, I’m trying not to take offense. But when someone is intentionally mean to you, keeping a soft heart is challenging. We can’t remain affectionate towards them without God’s help, which is why my therapist told me to ask God to keep my heart soft.
Ever since my therapist said these words to me, they’ve changed my life. Anyone at all who offends me, I immediately begin praying, “Keep my heart soft.” Her words captured me. My therapist made me realize how easily we harden our hearts towards people because of their actions. But if we’re to love like Jesus, we need to keep our hearts soft. Controlling our tongue helps us accomplish our goals.
Speak only uplifting and encouraging words. If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all. Ask God to keep your heart soft towards those who hurt you. Let praises come from your lips, not curses.
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Lord, thank You for creating us in Your image. Forgive us for cursing others. Help us keep soft hearts towards those who offend us. Let words of praise come from our mouths. Stop us from saying mean things that cause pain. Fill our mouths with uplifting and encouraging words only. IJNIP. Amen
Question for reflection
Who is your heart hardened to today?
