When asked the question, “What do you think?” This can open the door to futile thoughts or brilliant concepts. Some thoughts are not even worth mentioning because they may be a danger to yourself or someone else. What if you responded under stress to every thought that you had about a person or a situation? If you were to be honest, many of those thoughts would be harmful to you or someone you may be thinking about.
Have you ever been cut off on the road and given a ‘rude sign’ by a driver for driving too slowly? Was your first thought about the driver, “Oh, it’s an emergency, may God bless him to arrive safely at his destination?” I’m sure that would not be a response from many people.
What about seeing a person with a handicap sticker, but not seeing them on a walker or cane as they exit their vehicle? Do you think that the person really isn’t handicapped because you formed an opinion on how a disabled person should look?
Was there ever a time that you greeted and waved at someone, and they did not respond? Your thoughts could lead to a negative response from others who may resemble you in the future. We really should guard our thoughts and responses because they can shape our character. As you think, so do you become and react.
Let’s not rush to judgment by entertaining futile thoughts that do not edify another person. You probably can’t count the times that people misjudged you, so let’s not be guilty of the same crime. It feels good when you don’t act upon a negative thought about a person before you discover who they really are. I have met some wonderful people who have become endearing friends over the years. What about you?
Philippians 4:8 ESV Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Celebrate with us at the Villages Community Chapel in Cribari Auditorium every Sunday at 10 a.m. to be encouraged over the Word of Life and enjoy coffee and cookies with friends. The chapel is a place for needs to be met, faith to be affirmed, and new friends to embrace. You can view our worship services on YouTube at http://www.villagescommunitychapel.vgcc.club