Iron sharpens iron.

Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

I like things the way I like them (I know it is an odd sentence, but I think you know what I mean).  There are times when I shake my head and think, “If everyone would just see/think/do X the way that I see/think/do X, then they would be so much better off!”  I have been assured that this is a personality trait (Quirk? Flaw?).  In fact, it is a reasonably common personality trait, so I know I am not the only person who thinks these things (some are reading right now and smiling because you, too, feel this way).  Now, it is generally not my style to impose my way on others, but I do have my methods and my preferences.  And, simply put, they are best—for everybody! J

But human beings are so incredibly different from one another.  We share much in common, but we also are unique individuals.  Each of us has his own experiences.  Each has her own thoughts.  We can look at the same situation in the same context and yet respond very differently to it.  For the most part, this is a good thing.  We all bring something different to the table.  Because of this, we are all made better.  Iron sharpens iron.

We know, however, that differences in thought, opinion, experience, and the like can lead to strained relationships.  It can grow into hostility.  Because we are human, and humanity is complex, we sometimes find ourselves creating boundaries in places where God did not intend boundaries to be placed.  We can easily become enamored with our own methods or preferences, being convinced of the righteousness of our own point of view.  This happens to the detriment of others who may not see things the way we do, or who may not yet be prepared to see things the way we do.

It is critical in these moments to remember that which is most important—that Christ died for all of us.  He died for all of us not because of our inherent goodness or righteousness, but because He is good and righteous.  He died for us so that we might embrace Him.  By embracing Him, we accept the life He has given us.  In so doing, we learn also to embrace those around us.  People are a priority to God, and they should always—unequivocally—be our priority.

–Ricky

 

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