The sin of rudeness requires corrective action. Left unchecked, it can ruin relationships and alienate potential followers of Jesus. How would you feel if a car displaying a Christian bumper sticker slogan or fish emblem cut you off in traffic? If an irate member of your congregation ridiculed the opinion you expressed in a study group? If someone wearing a JESUS LOVES YOU Tee shirt cut into line ahead of you at the grocery store? If you offered a handshake and a smile to the person sitting next to you at church, but that person snubbed you? If a believer at your restaurant table complained constantly about the food and service and chose not to tip the server? If a letter to the editor resorted to vicious name-calling while extolling Christian values? If a Christian neighbor cranked up his stereo and blasted your eardrums past midnight? These rude behaviors are just a few of the ways some believers alienate others and offend the Lord.
The Bible instructs us to live in harmony with others, to be sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble (1 Peter 3:8). In other words, be courteous!
—From Overcoming Subtle Sins by Jim Dyet, © 2002, The Amy Foundation
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment