For Your Consideration


The consideration of others is a lost art.

How easily we get angered at all the inconsiderate people in the world - the guy blocking traffic; the noisy neighbors; the lady holding up the line counting out change; the whiny child interrupting our phone call. Why don't they consider the needs of those around them? Don't they know we have our own lives to live, places to go, things we'd like to be doing, uninterrupted? How could they be so inconsiderate?

Or are we, perhaps, the ones who are being inconsiderate?

The guy blocking traffic may be helping someone across the street or protecting an injured animal. His car might have stalled. He could have gotten devastating news and it could have just hit him, sitting at a traffic light. He could be ill and in need of help. Would it be more beneficial to get angry not knowing the reason, or to hope the man is ok as you make your way through traffic?

The lady holding up the line could be counting out change from her purchase because that's all she has. Or perhaps her debit card didn't work and she's doing the best she can to pay for her purchase. Or maybe she has some sort of physical issue and is struggling just to pick up the coins. Why not assume she's doing her best and pray others would have patience with you should you be in a similar situation? Being upset with her won't help anyone. 

The whiny child could be ill or injured or just need to be heard. The child could be seeking attention, and that's ok, because that's what children do. What would happen if you paused your conversation and took twenty seconds to listen? More than likely you'd meet the child's needs and they would move on, allowing you to continue your conversation. 

Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the feeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other's nerves you don't snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out.  1 Thessalonians 5:13-15

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