Everyone's Dealing with Something

You and I both know, at least in theory, that every person we meet is going through something. Now, I say 'in theory' because, by and large, we go through our day pretty much focusing only on the stuff we're going through. And believe it or not, that's one of the biggest reasons that conflict begins. I was standing outside a large apartment complex recently looking at all the windows and balconies - each a different residence, a different home, a different family, a different single-person abode. And I began to imagine all the stuff going on in each one. This guy's salary's been delayed, with his mortgage payment coming up. In the next apartment, there's a divorced middle-aged woman who's overthinking everything. Then there's the family who just lost their beloved pet of many years. The couple whose marriage is teetering on the edge. The young woman going out on her first date. The young man caught up in a soul-destroying addiction. The list is endless, right? Every person you meet is going through something … and that 'something' can make people - including us, let's be honest - behave badly. So you can see how conflict arises when we butt up against one another, without softening our hearts to recognise that the other person has stuff going on too. 1 John 3:18 My children, our love should not be only words and talk. No, our love must be real. We must show our love by the things we do. So, next time someone's behaviour is a bit off, show them some love, cut them some slack. This isn't some theory lesson; it's not just words and talk. No, your love must be real. You must show your love by the things you do. That's God's Word. Fresh … for you … today.