I bristle easily. There are situations which provoke in me a defensive posture; flaring of the nostrils, passionate response, narrow minded, narrowed focus.
Things like bad hermeneutics, bad theology, inconsistent political viewpoints. I guess that if I didn't feel strongly about my opinions I wouldn't be blogging. In the last couple of days I've gotten into heated discussions with three people. I almost got thrown out of my neighbor's house.
He would probably consider himself a Republican and a conservative. At dinner, he made a comment about how people who make a lot of money should be heavily taxed. Because, he said, they're rich and can afford it. Not that I'm going to change anytime soon.....but it's probably not ideal to call your neighbor a Socialist while you're having dinner at his table.
I get in trouble at bible studies too. I go to the study telling myself, "I. Will. Not. Talk." I'll just listen and lend support. Then, somebody will make a comment such as, "All Jews will go to Heaven because they're the Chosen People." Ooohhh noooo, here I go.
Another thing that bothers me are false and easy platitudes. For example, when I was going through the worst of my divorce, I was ready to punch the next person that said to me, " God will give you beauty for ashes (Isaiah 61:3). Yes, they meant well---but at the time it felt empty and didn't touch my hurt, nor my heart.
Which gives me pause to think. How can I graciously respond? How do I positively provoke?
I've grown less abrasive and more compassionate. But still have a ways to go. I guess I need to pray. Because, after all, "Prayer Works."**
**Although it may not work the way you think it should. But does work according to a loving Sovereign God who governs the Universe according to His plans.
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3 comments:
Lol! I love that you called your neighbor a Socialist at his own house! (In a bad way, of course.) ;)
I understand your frustration--Bad Hermeneutics really was a GREAT band in their heyday.
Glenn
Hmmm...very familiar responses. I wonder myself why I can't just leave well enough alone. After all, people are entitled to their own opinions, right? But something just wells up inside and then comes the diarrhea of the mouth. Yes, especially over bad theology and politics.
On another note, I loved, loved, loved your Yellowstone photos! And I'm just a tad bit envious that you saw Third Day, but I hope you had a great time with your beautiful Hailey.
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