Following Christ’s Example

I am writing today, not because I am responding to an obligation to this column; but because I have something important to say.

I pray that each one of you take the time to read this piece, think on it, and make the appropriate adjustments.

Recently, I have had a few “run- ins” with people in our community who have the reputation of being negative.

Their approach, delivery, and follow through all seem to be driven by the same atmosphere. It is ironic because each one of these people has incredibly engaging personalities.

Out of a heart of self awareness, I find it necessary to ask the following question in all situations: “Does the way I am handling this challenge prompt people to creativity, and proactive solution; or am I causing upset and stagnation?”

Important question…even more important answer!
The adage of “wwjd” has been a little played out in the past; however, I think it important to ask how Jesus would handle certain circumstances if he were here on earth today.
How would Jesus speak to a fellow citizen if He were walking by them on the square?

If Jesus were on the City Counsel, I wonder how He would approach certain decisions. (Right about here is where some of you will turn me off because you are challenged with the thought of Christ being involved in local politics. As a believer, I have faith that Jesus is in control of all, and therefore Is involved in the process!)
Continuing with this thought, I wonder how Christ would handle Himself if He were a member of the County Board of Commissioners.
I wonder how he would speak to, or about, His fellow Commissioners; both in person, as well as in the newspapers.

I cannot help but imagine a weekly column in the news paper written by our Lord and Savior. I think it would be amazing to see what He would choose to write about, and how He would handle the subject matter; what His view on world politics and current events would be, and whether He would place the responsibilities for individuals’ actions on that person, or on others that supposedly influenced them to act wrongly.

Yes, I think that would be a fine piece of reading indeed.
I am reminded of one piece of literature that Jesus gave divine inspiration for, which had these positive words of inspiration in it.

The words read as follows: Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

King David put it this way in the book of Psalm 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.”
These are words that we should, and can all live by; no matter what our station or position may be.

I can promise you one thing, if we choose to follow Christ’s example, to be positive and loving; if we choose to help and not hurt, to communicate and not to attack.

We will surely become one of the greatest communities in the great state of Georgia, and to the Glory of God.