Today’s Scripture: Proverbs 27:17
Let’s spend one more day on the blind man’s distorted vision. Notice Jesus didn’t change everyone else to conform to the man’s vision. Instead, he changed the man’s vision to conform to truth.
Have you ever found yourself wanting everyone else to adjust to your expectations? I have. All too often I’ve learned (the hard way) that the one who needs to change is me—not everyone else. When I first began in ministry, I noticed that there was always at least one staff member who clashed with me. When that person would leave, I’d breathe a sigh of relief. Then, someone new would be hired, and the irritation would start all over again. “Why can’t they see things my way,” I’d mutter to myself. “If they did, we’d get along really well.”
One day the Lord tapped me on the shoulder and said, “Have you ever thought that maybe they’re not the problem? Maybe it’s you.” Aha! No wonder He kept bringing the same type(s) of people into my life. It was for MY benefit so I could change.
If someone is an irritation to you, ask the Lord to change you before He changes them. Remember – “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” (Prov. 27:17). Do you want to be sharp? Get close to someone who is irritating.
- What/who are some irritating factors in your life right now? How is God using those circumstances to help you become sharper?
- How will you remain aware that you might need to change before you can expect others to change?