Inspirations

We live in a world of discord.   There are disputes between governments, groups of people; conservative, and liberals,  and church denominations. There are skirmishes between neighbors over a foot of property  or animals in their yard. There are arguments at work; often over time off, or job assignments. Moms and dads square off over many things in a day. Parents and children are often at odds with each other. Sometimes, disagreements are necessary while at other times the disagreements are over trivial things, things that will not matter in the long run. Often the discord is so great, we forget the  harmony  and all we hear is clashing, crashing notes. We have to work to restore the harmony, the peace. Today I am thankful for the people  who provide harmony, the peacemakers.  They have different views and ways of handling things and yet they can work together ...

We, my friend and I, were talking.  It was a while ago, so I don't even remember what we were talking about at the time.  It might have been something political or financial I am not sure.  What I do remember is that one minute we were having a nice conversation and the next, moment we were in the middle of an argument. I imagine most of us have been in that same predicament, at one time or another.  Later we wonder, "What happened?" It's true that some personalities just clash. But... not always. Sometimes it is more than just a difference in personalities that clash. It's worlds, ideas, and beliefs that clash. We see it in the political setting and the legal setting quite often. If you don't believe me, mention the word "abortion", or "homosexuality" there will be an instantaneous clash of worlds.  You can almost hear metal clanging against metal in the spiritual war that takes place. Usually, for most of us, t...

Drama, you can find it anywhere; at church, at work, at home, at social events.  In short, anyplace you find people, there will be at least one or two that like to create drama.  Some people thrive on discord and disputes.  They live for it, and they are not happy unless there is drama, and they will tattle, gossip and stir the pot just to cause drama.  Me, I do not like anger, strife and negative talking.  I prefer peace, unity and harmony.  Yet, often it seems I get caught in other people’s drama; sometimes sadly it’s my own fault, and I could have avoided it if I had wanted to avoid it.  I know at other times the drama is unavoidable, and we have to deal with it. While we may not have a choice about whether we want the drama or not, we do have a choice about how we deal with it.   It seems to me that, as Christians, we need to manage drama in a way that glorifies God. Here are a few suggestions:   Refuse to participate in gossip. ...