Tuesday; February 11

          Have you ever been around someone who just keeps things stirred up?  They say and do things that tend to keep the gurgling pot of antagonism stirred up?  They seem to be happiest when the people around them are the most upset.  Now, let me ask a more important question – are we those types of people?  Are we the ones who don’t seem to be satisfied with peace and harmony?  Instead of basking in the glow of good works and good will, we just keep everyone on edge.  The problem with this type of mindset is that it is not only upsetting to our community, friends, family and co-workers, it is an affront to God.  The Bible cautions, “For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, contention quiets down.  Like charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire, so is a contentious man to kindle strife.” (Proverbs 26:20-21).  No, I guess the text doesn’t specifically condemn pot-stirrers, but if you read enough of the Proverbs you’ll realize this is not the language typically used to approve of the action.
          Not only do we build barriers with others when we keep things stirred up, we also create ripples that impact lives several layers away from the epicenter of the event.  Yes, we can ruin the day of the person we get riled up, but by being contentious, we also impact innocent people around the edge.  When we talk evil about others, we are apt to make bystanders feel uncomfortable.  When we spread gossip and innuendo, we tempt others to participate in something that moves as fast as a wildfire and has a similar pattern of destruction.
          Let’s work at building relations rather than destroying reputations.  When we do, not only will we be better, so will the others around us.
          Think About It!

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