Instead, be kind and tender-hearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ. Ephesians 4:32 GNT
When a sentence starts with 'instead' there must have been an idea that is opposite of the one that follows the word 'instead. Take a look at the verse before today's extract: Get rid of all bitterness, passion, and anger. No more shouting or insults, no more hateful feelings of any sort. Reflect on this: No matter how gifted, talented or skillful I am, I cannot do both at the same time. I was not made to function at my full capacity with such confusion. I cannot allow hate to flow in and through me, and at the same time, be kind to other people. Human relationships are very complex, and God, in His wisdom, has planned it that we all come from and belong to various families. Hate and Kindness do not proceed from the same source, so it is very important that I take stock of my life and sort out my control centre. Whoever sits on the throne of my heart defines what my life produces; I cannot fake the physical manifestation of my inner conviction.
The verse for today enjoins me to be kind, and this would mean that the seed of kindness has already been planted in me. Kindness is also a fruit of the Spirit, and it would mean that whatever I claim toe have must look like God, if God will be glorified in it. As we are made by God and in His likeness, we have the tendency and natural inclination to be kind; after all, no mother kills her own child, unless there are some other factors, but imagine the scope, reach and power of a life that is under the direct influence and control of the Holy Spirit. Paul was writing to people described as 'God's people'. Am I one? Do my present actions and reactions show that I am a child of God? Can God be glorified in and through me, by my actions and interactions with people around me?
This demand is even made more relevant today when I consider what I have also received from God. At the time Jesus died for me, I didn't even know who He was, couldn't care less who He was, or even understand the value of what He did. He did it all the same, forgiving me all my past, present and even future sins, and giving me a guarantee of eternal life with Him. He cleaned me up, and gave me a fresh start. If I know the value of what I have received, I will be quick to extend the same grace to other people. I stand where I am by God's grace only, not by works, labour, intellect or willpower. I must flow out to other people with what I have received. I was made for eternity, but while I wait for heaven to be my final home, this earth and its inhabitants are waiting for my manifestation as a child of God. Would I be the true representation of this God? God's time of favour is here.
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