As we age, our short-term memory diminishes, and we make more mistakes and get distracted more easily. Some results of this are actually life-threatening, such as leaving the stove burner on, or placing a towel or potholder too close to the source of heat, or putting a lighted candle too near a curtain, etc.
We cause frustration, and sometimes even anger in those closest to us, because they get weary of explaining things to us over and over. We unwittingly do and say things that are hurtful, even though we have a kind heart. We constantly need forgiveness for our unintentional thoughtlessness and forgetfulness.
The lesson learned in living with someone with this natural diminishing ability is that when we are unaware of the root of a person’s words or actions, we may form an incorrect assumption and falsely accuse them unless we get all the facts before we jump to negative conclusions.
We fail to show kindness and compassion, but instead we give in to frustration and anger. We are instantly offended rather than asking questions to see the motive behind their words or actions. We all have a bad day now and then and exhibit grouchy, judgmental, or hurtful behavior without meaning to do that.
Instead of over-reacting to them, we can ask the person how they are doing, or what is causing them to act this way. We take a cue from God’s Word and act like Jesus from our spirit rather than our wounded soul. God is merciful and full of grace toward us. He is not quickly angered, and His love is firm and continual (Psalm 86:15).
As we yoke up with Jesus, we learn from His example and our attitude is lifted. He is humble and gentle with us rather than easily angered (Matthew 11:28-30). In Him, we find rest for our wounded soul – our thoughts and emotions and choices – in this weary world in which we live (Psalm 23:3).
Giving one another the benefit of the doubt and choosing not to feel offended by someone’s behavior will preserve our love and kindness toward each other. We have no need to lecture others for their mistakes, but to accept them just as they are, and to pray for the Holy Spirit to convict both of us of our faults and to help each other to overcome them (Matthew 5:40-43).
Prayer:
Father God, teach us how to foster a habit of kindness by changing our focus about events in our life. We want to share Your love and acceptance with others in our life. Your kindness helps us to feel sorry for our departure from Your principles and to come to You for salvation (Romans 2:4). We honor and respect You as our Almighty God. We find rest in You for our soul (Hebrews 4:9-16).
Remind us daily to focus on Your love, grace, and kindness toward us, and to share this same attitude with everyone in our life (Matthew 7:12). As we meditate on Your description of love in Your Word, we see how far we must go to measure up, but we also see a chart to learn from and on which to fashion our future behavior (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
Thoughts for the Day:
God’s love sets us free to love others, even when their behavior irritates or frustrates us. At times, we get disheartened at the intensity it requires to get along with some people, but God helps us not to get impatient with them and to encourage them instead, just as He has compassion and mercy on all of us.
- Galatians 5:13, 6:9-10; Ephesians 4:32; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Proverbs 12:25
