I used to long to 'stir the pot' with people all the time. I grew up with the mind-set to intentionally say things and get people to react in such a way that I was the focus of the attention. One primary example has to do with how I grew up in Nebraska. I purposely cheered on for the arch-nemesis of the Huskers, the Oklahoma Sooners. I intentionally would 'stir the pot' with classmates, friends and even unknown people around me and push their buttons. Sadly, this way of live bled into the other areas of my life. It made me a very angry and mean person to just about anyone who crossed my path, especially in the discussions regarding football. To this day, I still find myself doing it.
Instead of choosing to follow my old self, I am working on becoming more like Christ. This is one area which I still have much trouble changing being that I am still a big fan of college football and I honestly can admit that I still hate the Huskers. Then I find myself asking why I have such a bitter taste in my mouth. Why do I really find myself feeling this way? Why do I treat God's children (even if they are Husker fans) that way? A big realization was that I was so starved for attention of any type, I would act this way for people to notice me and I'd be the center of attention.
It's been a long haul and I still am convicted every day in my maturation process with Christ in the center of all of it. Therefore, the next time you find yourself intentionally saying things that might be sarcastic, hurtful or otherwise to get a reaction - I challenge you to ask yourself this question. Are you carrying a spoon in your pocket? Are you intentionally stirring the pot for things to happen? Is this your own self doing it or are you being attacked by satan in this world? More specifically, when you are with family or loved ones, do you find yourself 'shooting off at the mouth' with hurtful and even spiteful comments that really do injure those around you?
If this posting has brought you to a crossroads, Praise Christ for it. Then I ask you to pray for His strength to fight another day without doing the 'normal' comfortable ways of living. It's going to be tough to fight the old ways of doing it, but God will reward you in unfathomable ways.
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its hard to be raised by a household who's as judgemental and harsh on those around them as we've dealt with. however, that doesnt mean you have to live your life the same way. we find ourselves quick to poke fun or make a comment and why? to make a joke at some strangers expense? this becomes very apparent when your kids start doing it.
ReplyDeleteps let go of your disdain for the skers, you dont ever have to worry about playing us again - we have a new selection of rivalries of which the one i cant wait the most for is decked out in black and gold