“Clowns, Idiots, and Jerks”
Those are my go-to words when people tick me off. And most people tick me off.
And it seems like lately I’m saying them more and more frequently. What’s going on? Haven’t I always had a quick temper? That doesn’t make it right, but haven’t I always let offenders know immediately that they crossed the line with me? Don’t I like being a little intimidating? But why I’m I noticing my attitude and being sensitive to it? Sensitive to how I come across to others and actually caring?
I believe for one reason, and one reason only.
Under the conviction of the Holy Spirit, I’m realizing that I need an attitude adjustment! The LORD is reminding me each time I spew one of those favorite nouns that I am not being observant or obedient to His example or His scripture.
“Do not let unwholesome talk come out of your mouths..(ouch!)..but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs..(stepping on my toes here LORD)…that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29)
I know we are not suppose to add or take away from the Holy Scripture, but I think in my case, I need to go a little deeper and add “Don’t even think it. Stop the cruel remarks before they come out of my mouth”.
Victoria’s Example Number One: Clowns
“Cut me off in traffic, especially in larger cities, and pull in front of me when there really isn’t any room for your vehicle! Clown! What are you doing? Are you in that big of a hurry?!” I yell out loud with exacerbated hand gestures (yes, my whole hand and not just one of my five fingers)
Correct response: Forgive me Father. I don’t need to think or say that about that person. I don’t know their circumstances or what is going on in their lives right now, but YOU do. Is it really that big of a deal that I’m making it? No. It’s not. Sorry LORD.
Luke 6:36-37> “Be merciful, as your Father is merciful. Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”
Victoria’s Example Number Two: Idiots
“Leave your unattended, not-pumping-any-gas vehicle at the fuel pump blocking the way while you go inside to purchase snacks! Idiot! I guess it’s all about you. You don’t care that your actions are totally inconsiderate of other people needing fuel! (Again, there are hand gestures to illustrate my inconvenience).
Correct response: Remind me LORD that YOU love that person the same amount as YOU love me! YOU want them to with YOU in Heaven too. That’s pretty sobering. It’s actually only a couple of minutes. Is it worth confronting that person over a Coke and Twinkies? Nope. Just chill. Read some bumper stickers or people watch. I’m sure I will have a comment about how they are dressed.
2 Peter 3:9>”The LORD is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
Victoria’s Example Number Three: Jerks
“Are you kidding me? Transgenders reading to little kids in public schools or libraries? That’s wrong! Seriously? You think toddlers should decide whether they’re a little boy or a little girl? Didn’t God make that decision already in the mother’s womb? AAGGHH! You stupid jerks!”
Correct response: Father, they are blind to the Truth. They are lost in darkness, just like I once was. Show them the Truth, and the Light. LORD, stop this insanity. Let me be bold and righteous for Your sake.
Ephesians 5:8.”For you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the LORD, live as children of Light.”
So, I’m sincerely trying to stop my unwholesome thoughts the second they pop into my carnal mind. I don’t want to disappoint my Father anymore.
I want to be kinder, ..softer, ..more compassionate, ..more patient, ..more like Him.
Want to join me?