Last time we talked about becoming and being, rather than rushing and doing. You can click here to read about our focus on patience. As promised, let’s take a look at other life qualities that let us slowly enjoy the ride in our interpersonal relationships. Some are harder than others but it’s not the doing in our own strength, but the be-ing that makes the ride pleasant. We can:
- Be kind to the person who takes your parking spot. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32 NIV
- Be loving to the annoying neighbor whose lawn service wakes us early on Saturday morning. “And over all these virtues put on love…” Colossians 3:14a NIV
- Be interested in someone else’s hobby even though it’s not one we would pursue. “Honor one another above yourselves.” Romans 12:10 NIV
- Be a listener when we also have something to say. “Let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak.” James 1:19 NIV
- Be present to one who needs help and encouragement even when we’re pressed for time. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Philippians 2: 3-4 NIV
- Be informed before offering an opinion. “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Proverbs 11:14 ESV
- Be real and transparent rather than try to impress that we’ve got it all together. “The integrity of the upright guides them.” Proverbs 11:3 ESV.
- Be last in line and give someone your place ahead. “Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.” Romans 12:16 NIV
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Galatians 5: 22-23 (NIV)
Which especially speaks to you? Others to add? How have you been the recipient and what has it meant to you?
As I was reading your delightful post, I started replaying memories of watching you demonstrate each of these characteristics in your own life. Thank you for being that “shining beacon on a hill” that we can look to as you model Christ’s influence upon your life. I’m guessing that there weren’t always as evident in your life as they have been the past five years or so, since I first met you, but I also suspect that God included them as He knit you together in your mother’s womb my friend. It’s wonderful to watch you be who God made you to be. Thank you for your steadfast encouragement in our walk of faith.
You are so kind, JD. Thank you for giving me a smile.
Your message shares wonderful ways to be kind to our neighbor. I expect others are like me in that we need reminders of how to be a loving neighbor. Life is fast moving and we’re busy, or tired, or lonely, or sad and it’s so easy to take that frustration out on others. Thank you for your inspiring message, Marilyn.
Marilyn, these are all important mental attitudes to apply to our behavior. I especially like “Be informed before expressing your opinion.” I have been guilty of opening my mouth too many times before I was equipped to do so. Thanks for sharing these valuable traits we should endeavor to express.
Marilyn, your wonderful post reminds me to refrain from overfilling my schedule. Acts of kindness can be quick, but we’re more likely to notice the needs of others and spend time with them when we aren’t rushed. From time to time, I find ceramic bunnies on my deck because my neighbor knows what I like and takes time to think of me.
Rushing and patience as we said in the last blog, are responsible for our missing out on so much .I recall reading that we are often so busy chasing after the big things that we miss the little things and we find out too late that those little we really big after all. Just think how big it is if a little kind word can change another’s day! Thanks Jeannie for adding value to today’s conversation
What wonderful reminders! Thank you!
Thank you for visiting!
Marilyn, thanks for this great list that includes Scripture AND very practical examples to apply to life. Blessings!
Marilyn, what great applications for these scriptures! Made me consider my reaction to irritations.
I reflected a lot too.
Great list of suggestions Marilyn. These, along with your scripture references, provide a great way to connect and enjoy our time together
Marilyn. You leave us with many was to do and be a reflection of Christ. I enjoyed this post.
Thank you Lisa.
Enjoyed this Marilyn. Especially found the verses encouraging! Thanks!
Thank you for reading and sharing here.