by Roberta Cykon
Attack, withdraw, or bless...
By Pastor Bobby Schuller
"But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you..."
- Luke 6:27
What happens when you feel wounded? Do you attack or do you withdraw? If you do one or both of these behaviors in response to your wound, it's very likely because you have bitterness and blame in your heart.
Do you feel bitter? Towards whom? Do you feel embittered towards people that love you? Let's move away from our bitter thoughts to become a person that can embrace gentleness and embrace a blessing. Let's become the kind of person that can bless those in our lives even when they hurt us.
That is something that is possible for believers. It's something that Jesus promises us because that's exactly what Jesus did for us. Even when we hurt him, he still loved, and continues to love and bless us.
Prayer: Dear Lord, when I am hurt by someone I want either to attack or to withdraw from that person. Instead, I will try to follow your lead, blessing and loving despite the hurt. Amen.
Reflection: When hurt, do you tend to attack or withdraw or both?
"Since I came into the IB ministry I have learned that I am a precious child of God..I am what God says I am..not what everyone else says! I want to be an example for Jesus. So that means to love my enemies and to be bold in the face of adversity as he gives me wisdom to speak. I cannot make choices for anyone else. But I can plant seeds along lifes way while here on earth. I believe if we at IB come together in one mind and of one accord God will add the increase. Sincerely Yours in Christ"
- Sherry Stegall
Integrity Beauty Woman of Excellence, 2011