After a wrestling match that has been going on in my heart for weeks over a few different things, I have decided I would rather be thought of as naive for believing the best of someone than as a pessimistic brat for believing the worst. I have done both frequently enough to know that the hangover from the latter is just not worth it.
Everyone in this world is not going to be as kind as I wish, as honest as I would hope or mentally and emotionally healthy. I can't help what they do, nor can I read their minds/hearts or true motives.
I am responsible for my responses. I want to choose love. I strive to give people the same grace I would hope they would extend to me in my less-than-graceful or misunderstood moments.
I want to reflect the beautiful parts of Him, rather than glorify the yucky parts of me. I do not want the Enemy to use my sin to misrepresent my Jesus.
I wish it were as easy to do as it is to type.
Help me, Lord. When I fall short, restore me with your grace and give me the courage to try, try again.
"In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples—when they see the love you have for each other." John 13:35b, The Message
I can really relate to this post and feel like I'm in the same place myself. I also really enjoyed reading your Mama's Confession post. Really encouraging notes! Thank you, and praying for your son tonight. :)
ReplyDeleteDefinitely much food for thought. I am in a season of re-evaluating a certain friendship. Having to make a choice of how to proceed and letting go of ALL that has happened in the past. This post is a wake-up to me...that I need to extend the same grace I am granted daily by my Father.
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