"Therefore, as I live, says the Lord God, I will deal with you according to the anger and envy that you showed because of your hatred against them; and I will make myself known among you, when I judge you. You shall know that I, the Lord, have heard all the abusive speech that you uttered against the mountains of Israel, saying, “They are laid desolate, they are given us to devour.” (Ez 35:11-12)
Anger, envy, hatred, abusive speech. We know these when we are the targets. Nothing good ever comes from them. When I am the target of these, I have really three options, respond in kind, flee, or perhaps let God deal with that person.
The first one of course only keeps the venom flowing. I may feel better momentarily until the point when what I've just done sets in. Fleeing while much safer, is also somewhat emptying as well. I haven't stood up for myself. I've allowed that person to again know that they've gotten to me. And I leave feeling like a coward or a doormat, again neither a great place to be.
The third option is the hardest but ultimately the most satisfying I think. I have stood my ground, I've taken it, sort of, but have not lowered myself to the other person's level. And I've given them to God. I can only hope that God might turn their hearts in an opposite direction, not away from me, but a change in attitude all around.
Of course I should also mention how I am not immune from showing anger, envy, hatred or abusive speech. Not only in places where I might be responding in kind, but when I'm the one serving up the poison first. I again know that at the end of the rampage, I'm not feeling very powerful, and often foolish. I also know that God might want a word with me as well. I can hope for some mercy and a fresh start. I've been graced so far in that God hasn't dealt with me severely in those times.
Blessings,
Ed+
Monday, June 17, 2013
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