Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:31 & 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Life is full of difficult people. People who say hurtful things. People who do mean things. People who don't think about how their words and actions affect the people around them.
When we brush up against one of these people, we can get hurt. Our emotions can be bruised.
How should we, as Christians react to mistreatment by thoughtless or mean people?
We have two choices: become bitter and resentful or forgive and leave them in God's hands. Obviously, God wants us to forgive and leave that person's fate in God's hands. God wants us to "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice" (Ephesians 4:32).
We need to be obedient to God's command. We need to get rid of all resentment and bitterness. We need to treat everyone as God's child. We need to be patient and kind. We need to forgive those people who hurt us then move forward, forgetting their offences and treating them with love just as God has forgiven us and treats us with His unconditional love.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs." 1 Corinthians 13:4 & 5
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help to forgive and to treat the people who hurt me with love just as You have done for me. In Jesus' name.