Have you ever tried to get along with someone who is acting mean towards you? Someone with which you can’t seem to get along? A “mean-girl”? A possible enemy? Someone that is bent on seeing you un-done?
Well, have I learned a few life lessons to deal with this one, my friends! And for answers, I go straight to the best manual for wisdom – the Word of God!
On this particular topic, Jesus had a way of thinking that was different from the standard of the day when it came to responding to those who mistreat, lie and gossip against us. Some folks on social media have days where they express their concerns as a result of the injustice of the gossip and lies directed to them by others. So, I decided to look at what WISDOM would have us do in response to such insults, real or perceived!
Reading and reflecting earlier today on the Scriptures found in Matthew Chapter 5 verses 43-45 (CEV); we are guided to LOVE and PRAY for our enemies”.
You have heard people say, “Love your neighbors and hate your enemies.” But I tell you to love your enemies and pray for anyone who mistreats you. Then you will be like your Father in heaven…
WHAT!??
YES, I KNOW! EASIER SAID THAN DONE, RIGHT?
Let me ask — Ladies! Do do you have any enemies? Do you have mean-girls in your life?
Some of us may or may not have considered this question, nor want to admit it. At least not having enemies in the true sense of the word.
“Mean-girls” could be anyone! They could be your friends, family members, co-workers, church sisters, boss, etc. — yeah, you got it… who are not ready to see you progress! And…they can be downright MEAN! Yes, we all have people who definitely rub us the wrong way and, others – for some reason will never get along with us, or even like us.
What I gleaned from Jesus’ insight on this matter is; let those who have, or continue to wrong you be the catalyst that drives you to prayer.
WHEW! Yes, I went there!
I can hear some of you shouting, “PRAY FOR THEM?”. Yes, friends! PRAY FOR THEM!
PRAY over the relationship! DO what you are able to reach out in love. This attitude is further supported in Romans 12:18 (KJV) which helps us with this concept that “IF” it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men”.
IF it be possible, as much as lie the in you, live peaceably with all men”.
IMPOSSIBLE? UNNATURAL? Maybe! However, it takes the supernatural power of God to change an “enemy” or a “mean-girl” into a friend.
My Sisters, this is what I know for sure!
I have experienced this wise principle operate successfully in my life over the years. By not allowing myself to focus solely on the cruel intentions of those who are acting out of character toward me, I have learned that “mean”people will act mean to other people. And, hurt people will hurt other people! Some of my dearest friends now were once individuals who were initially “mean-girls”. They made me feel “uncomfortable” when in their presence. Martin Luther King Jr. caught this principle when he said, “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.”
I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.
I encourage you — rather than rant on social media; do the heart thing! Go to the word. Express your concern to Master Lover of your soul! Love is a choice and praying for those who’ve wronged you is a first step to transforming any relationship no matter how difficult it may seem. And the rest — leave it to the One who is LOVE!
Love you!
Now now it’s your turn…
Go ahead and share how you deal with the “mean girls” in your life? We can learn from each other!
You Flourish!
