XXVIII
(I searched for synonyms of nonchalant, and “cool as a cucumber” came up, hence the title).
Looking at the highlights on my posts has been interesting. Sometimes there are things you know people might highlight, other things you hope they will, and other things you never expect them to.
Those are my favorite because it shows what spoke specifically to them, what their mind and heart is taking in, or what they consider important.
Looking at those highlights has made me realise that every word that one says, whether you think it will have an impact or not, could make a difference to someone. There are different things that will stay in someone’s mind when you have a conversation with them, and sometimes it’s the things that nonchalantly come out of our mouths.
Whether for good or for worse.
I was reminded of the following couple verses, which I really strive to be (yet not in my own strength, don’t worry).
“Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. Ephesians 4:26–27
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen [that it may give grace to those who hear, say other versions].
And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.
And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you. Ephesians 4:29–32
May I impart grace not only when it’s easy, but even more when it’s hard. That is something I’ll be able to do not of my own, but only by and through the grace He already imparts.
Oh, just remembered something else.
If the thought “but they don’t deserve grace” ever finds its way into your head, steady yourself. Do you deserve grace? Do I? The answer is plan and simple: no. Yet God, the Lord Himself, delights in showing mercy. How can we refuse. Rather, I ask the Lord that I may delight in it. May I run to forgive, run to give, run to sacrifice, run to love.
-m
