Day 19 - The Rude Tongue

Day 19 - The Rude Tongue

"There will be a highway called the Holy Road. No one rude or rebellious is permitted. It is for God's holy people." Isa 35:8

God has a great sense of humor...speaking of highway, wouldn't you love to have a highway for nice, considerate drivers? Everyday we commute to work, home, the store and are confronted with road rage--people saying rude things and showing obscene gestures. Why are we so rude? Is it over scheduling, 24/7 information, spoiled children, demands of the job, longer commute times?

Lack of patience is at a world-wide high. How did we get this way? Many believe that our fast-paced world of convenience has created unrealistic expectations that everything is achievable at a snap of the fingers or flick of a switch. Ill-mannered and rude conversation has become the norm--even amongst God's children.

I was in a prayer meeting recently listening to a believer testify to the glory and grace of Jesus. How He had changed her, He had cleansed her heart and her life. She gave a great testimony for the Lord. Immediately following her testimony she discovered that her purse was missing. The loud expletives and angry words that spewed from her mouth were astonishing. Even someone like myself who has walked with the Lord for about 23 years was taken aback.

Wow, POOF! Her testimony just disappeared and I am sure the unbelievers had a lot to say after leaving the meeting. "If that is what Jesus did for her, why bother?" What happened to the Golden Rule? "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Luke 6:31

It doesn't stop there...how many of us are guilty of talking loudly on our cell phones in a public setting? Have you heard cell phones ring in meetings or church? I ask God for wisdom when using my e-devices. Don't let me pull-out the Blackberry when someone is sharing with me, remember to put the phone on silent before meetings or church, pay attention when someone is talking and don't distract yourself with a book, the radio, the TV, etc.

Oh, God is still working on me! A while ago I was in a local service shop and my friend called me. I answered the phone and proceeded to hold an hysterical conversation with her. A man sitting near me tapped me on the shoulder, "Do you mind taking that outside? I am trying to read." I could have scowled, ignored him, or given him some rude words. Instead, God softened my heart and I said, "sure, sorry for the noise." I told my girlfriend when I got outside and we both said, "Geesh, how annoyed do we get when someone is talking loudly? I am so embarrassed."

Take the mote out of your own eye before trying to remove the speck from your brother's eye! Matt 7:3

Affirmation: Love is patient, love is kind, love is never rude. I will do unto others as I would have them do unto me. Love covers a multitude of sins.

I expanded the affirmation--I need to recite it several time a day and remind myself that rudeness is not Godly! Love to all, Sister Lisa