When people are upset they say and do the wrong things. Especially in the heat of the moment. Instead of stepping back and asking God to help us in a situation we become critical and arrive at the wrong conclusion. So, slow down; ask God for patience and understanding. Don't force others to live by their past while you expect yours to be forgotten. Whatever you sow in mercy you'll reap a hundred times over. Everybody makes mistakes, so give them a chance to come back into the relationship with dignity. How long has it taken you to correct the mistakes in your life? Aren't you still working on some of them? Aren't you glad people don't know the whole story of your struggles? So give people time; give them an opportunity to explain themselves. They may not even know the right words at first, so be willing to listen a little longer. Jesus put up with Peter's weaknesses because He knew what Peter would one day become. Interestingly, when someone upset Peter he came to Jesus and said, '...how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times? Jesus said to him...Seventy times seven.' (Matthew 18:21-22 NKJV) If they have a flicker of hope, fan that flame, don't extinguish it. They don't need a critic, they need a cheerleader. How do you become the person who can step up at the right time. Always look at people as you would like them to look at you! When you look at others through the eyes of Christ the filter of love is always present. So as I say to you everyday...tell them they are loved!
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