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Don’t React; Respond

 

Ephesians 5:15-17 – “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 

Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 

Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is”. 

Today consider: God does not just ask us to react to what happens to us; we’re called to respond to it – to know His will and act in accordance. And there’s a big difference.

Most people react to their circumstances – they fire back out of emotion. They strike out unthinkingly at others due to fear or anger they feel welling up without considering the consequences. As a result, their actions cause deeper problems.

This is why God calls us to respond to life by being careful how we walk. We are called to be peacemakers – people who infuse situations with the tranquility of the Lord’s love and presence. And this means that whenever anything happens – whether conflict or tragedy, we immediately go to God for wisdom. We allow Him to shape our view of circumstances rather that our emotions.

So today, as situations arise, don’t just react; rather, take a moment to pray. Ask God what to do. What is He teaching you and who does He want you to minister to? Actively look for opportunities to glorify Him.

From – “Jesus, Our Perfect Hope” by Charles F. Stanley