“I’m gonna give that person a piece of my mind!”
How often have you heard (or said) that? The problem of course is that we all have just so many pieces, and after awhile we are sure to run out of them. And then, there we are, mindless with no peace.
I shudder to think of how many times my life used to express that sentiment. I used to be an angry guy with such high expectations for everyone, including myself. There was not much joy in that piece-meal life. Finally, I came to the end of my rope. I realized that I was becoming someone I didn’t want to be. And furthermore, I had no real hope of changing myself by my own power. I already knew who Jesus was and proclaimed to follow Him. My mouth said, “Jesus is Lord” but my actions said, “I am Lord of my life. I am in charge.” Yes, in charge of my hopeless anger.
The solution was to give it up, to stop being in charge. Now, surrender doesn’t come easy to any of us. But in such battles such as this, real victory only comes through surrender. You can either be a slave to selfish ways or you can surrender to God’s leadership in your life. You can either insist on remaining the same, or you can be transformed. Over thirty years ago, I gave up a life of anger and bitterness. I gave up giving people a piece of my mind and chose instead to pursue peace of mind.
We are called to be peacemakers. Is there anything that stands in the way of living at peace with others in your life? God has the answer and the power to change that. Give it up to Him and find peace.
Postscript- A miserable cold instantly came upon me with a vengeance this afternoon (3/22); not a good thing with a compromised immune system. I appreciate your prayers that this not find a chink in my armor.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18
We continue praying for you and enjoy your daily messages. John
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Thanks John. Prayers are needed and appreciated, especially in the weeks to come. Let us know how we can pray for you. Blessings!
Thank you Bryan. I know you are a man of peace because that is my experience. Please do take care and maybe some old fashioned chicken soup and honey tea with chili pepper!
get well soon!
Actually Marcia makes a Cold Knock Out Tea with garlic, lemon and honey. That plus prayers and a lemon grass sauna seemed to send this cold a packin’ about as fast as it came in. Shortest cold in my life!