As my husband and I coordinated schedules for the holiday season, I immediately felt my pulse quicken, my jaws clench and my shoulders slowly tense up to my ears. Family gatherings can bring joy from spending time with people we don’t see often. However, holiday gatherings can also be stressful because we anticipate what people might say, and worry about who might offend us or hurt our feelings with thoughtless remarks. The holidays always seem to cause my tinsel to get in a tangle.
Holiday Scheduling
This year as I was making gift lists and to-do lists, I decided to try something new. It wasn’t a new recipe from Pinterest or an IG how-to. Instead, I decided this holiday season would be different. I decided I would prepare my heart and mind to not be easily offended, to forgive quickly, and to love others even when hurtful offhand comments were made. As the days quickly approached, I sat each morning with my Bible and my prayer journal in hand preparing my heart and mind.
The Lord Can Change Us
“Lord help me change to be more like you. Forgiving quickly, loving others right where they are, and not being easily offended. Lord, help me to change my mindset and prepare my heart. Thank you, Lord, In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
When offhand comments come at you like arrows, choose to be like Jesus, forgiving quickly and turning the other cheek. When your in-love criticizes you, be like Jesus, forgiving quickly and choosing kindness.
Turning the Other Cheek
Turning the other cheek and forgiving quickly can be easier said than done. Paul tells us in Colossians 3, “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowances for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.” (Colossians 3:12-15 NLT).
Our human emotions and feelings get in the way, but through prayer and God’s strength, we can be more like Jesus. We may slip up and give a quick retort, but that’s okay. Ask for forgiveness, keep trying, and continue praying. The peace from Christ will rule our hearts if we ask God for it.
Choosing to Be More Like Jesus
This year I know someone will say something offensive, but I’m choosing to be more like Jesus – forgiving the offender and loving them right where they are. Will you join me in not letting your tinsel get tangled but allowing Jesus to prepare our hearts and minds to be more like Him?
Let Us Pray:
Lord help me change, to be more like you, forgiving quickly, loving others right where they are, and not being easily offended. Change my mindset and prepare my heart. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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