“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord; looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble and by this many become defiled.” Hebrews 12:14-15, NKJ
No matter how careful you are people on occasion are going to misunderstand you. But the truth of the matter is we can also fall prey to jumping to conclusions ourselves! This is why I am so grateful that God knows the intentions of our hearts. As much as we long to live at peace with man, our overall goal is to remain at peace with God. Whatever people may say or think about you, if you can lay your head down on your pillow at night knowing that everything is okay between you and God – all can be well with your soul.
As we embark on Christmas gatherings this year, lets remember to extend grace. When our friends or family members misunderstand us – we can trust that God knows our heart! We can do everything humanly possible to create a warm, loving environment, but at the end of the day, if our hearts are clear before God – everything is a-okay! The one person who will never misunderstand you is your Heavenly Father. He knows you inside and out and nothing can separate you from His love! Selah (pause and think about that for a moment).
Many blessings to you this Christmas season and remember the greatest gift of all is Jesus!
Prayer:
“Lord, I love you and I am so thankful that you know my heart. I don’t like it when people misunderstand me, but as long as you and I are alright – everything can be well with my soul. Help me to not judge others. Help me to be quick to forgive and extend mercy. Please bless my friends and family this Christmas. May Your Presence be with us and may our focus be on the celebration of your birth. You are the Reason for the Season and I bless Your Holy Name.” Amen.
Check out this awesome video by a pastor concerning the debate between retail stores verbalizing, “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” – you will love it:) //www.citizenlink.org/content/A000005834.cfm
Tracy,
THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! I have been struggling with this very issue with a longtime friend. It’s so good to be reminded that god “has our backs” and we are A-OK in his eyes!
I love the video! I one hundred percent agree. Did you know I read that 60% of all retailers sales come at the Christmas season. Seems to me they would want Christmas to stick around. Huh?
In wondering if I should have my daughter in public schools because of the money, this season has brought such peace to me about that. When she comes home Quoting Luke 2: “…..Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men….” I know I have made the right choice!
Well, to all a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Yes you have no idea how timely this is. Just was talking to the Lord last night about a big misunderstanding that is still weighing on my heart. Thank you for the encouragement! Love you!
Your words ring loud and clear with the truth that we, as women, so often forget! Some will receive us, others will reject us, but God – whose Word says we are “beautifully and wonderfully made” – smiles at us when our hearts are pure before Him.