When we talk about “All things work together for good” (Rom 8:28) we have to realize that it also includes when people are purposely sinning against us.  Not just people, even aliens, like Predator.

Now it might seem obvious that “all things” includes other people’s sins against us, but we sure don’t act like it when it actually happens to us. How should we act to someone where we know that God is allowing it to happen to for a reason – that He can turn their sin around for our good? Maybe we’d be more focused on understanding why something is happening to us rather than how annoying they are. Maybe we would act like Joseph when he ran into his brothers a bunch of years later after they sold him into slavery…

Gen 50:[20] You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. [21] So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.

He flat out says… you sinned against me, God turned it around for good, I am going to treat you nice.

That totally sums up how we should treat those who sin against us. Christ of course repeats this theme in the Gospels. Well maybe it would be more comforting to know why God is letting you know what’s going on, what future outcome He’s shooting for by allowing people to sin against you. The thing is – we don’t need to know that.  If you have faith in God, you will trust His promise of turning around things for good.

What you can figure out right now though is what fruit of the spirit He’s trying to grow in you. So list the people who are mean to you, who talk down to you, who intentionally try to make you mad or your children who try to defy your authority.  What weaknesses do you have that God is trying fix?

What are your weaknesses that God finds it necessary for these things to happen to you?

Find these weaknesses, and then you’ll be able to treat those sinful sinners more graciously. Apparently my weakness is patience because I always have to deal with people who are insanely jealous of how good looking I am.

MT 5:[39] But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. [40] And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. [41] If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. [42] Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. MT 5:43 “You have heard that it was said, `Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ [44] But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

Today’s Fruit of the Spirit: Gentleness

Take Time To Pray: Pray that God will help you focus on fixing your sins rather than someone else’s.