The fall colors are in full display, and here in New England, are boldly declaring the beauty of God. Week 3 in Settle My Soul boldly brought these thoughts …

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“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.”  (Proverbs 19:11, NLT)

We all have people who do things which irritate us, we don’t understand, or flat out get us mad.

But this verse is telling us if we have good sense, we will be slow to get angry and perhaps … even overlook it. The author puts it this way:

“Essentially, our patience in passing over an offense adorns us with true beauty and honors the other person.” (Karen Ehman, page 106)

The author suggest three actions:

• don’t say anything
• smile
• love

And love wins every time!

So, who sometimes bothers you with their behavior, and how can you overlook their offenses?

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“And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love their Christian brothers and sisters.” (1 John 4:21, NLT)

There are many things dividing people right now. A simple trip to the supermarket can bring out yet another dividing factor – paper or plastic.

The reading brings a “cautionary directive” as the author puts it. The command is from God Himself. Love will not include “caustic and critical comments”, “gossip”, or daggers sent on social media.

The author made this statement:

“… don’t narrow your choice of friends down to only those who make all the same decisions you do.” (Karen Ehman, page 111)

The author suggests:

“Build loving bridges, not barbed-wire fences.” (Karen Ehman, page 111)

Is there anyone in your life who built a bridge toward you? How did it make you feel? Is there anyone you need to build a bridge toward?

Lord, help us to love well – even when … we don’t agree, it is difficult, or it may not be reciprocated. In Your Name, Amen.

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“Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken.” (Psalm 62:5-6, NLT)

The reading helped me to better understand myself. The author uses the analogy of mountain climbing; bringing out the concept of “climb high – sleep low”.

The expression means to go as far as you can during the day but then returning to a lower elevation to sleep or rest at night.

I finally understood why at the end of a stressful day, I enjoy – no bask and relish in – the quiet of my family room. Alone and in the quiet, I can think, pray, and regroup. Then I go to bed with my mind and soul quieted and can fall asleep.

What grade would you give yourself in the area of rest? What will you do this week to carve out time to slow down and savor some time alone with the Savior?

Father, I pray for my sisters and friends. Help them to find time and ways to effectively rest. Refresh them so that they are able to meet the demands of their days. In Jesus’ Name, for He is the only one who can truly refresh us, Amen.

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When offended,
we can build loving bridges
as we rest in Him alone.