ALWAYS EXTEND KINDNESS (In Spite)

When I shop, which I am not a fan of,(I know, I am the exception), I inevitably pick the cashier-line that moves the slowest. And the one where the cashier is just about growling at everyone.
Patience is not one of my strong points. Add that to my dislike of shopping and it is a wonderful pairing. No, not really!
There are those times where I stand on the rock of the LORD and extend smiles, friendly chat and patience (Yes, that in itself is a miracle).

And then there are the others where I sigh, criticize the cashier and do all I can do to hold in my thoughts from spilling out of my mouth!

I am learning to try a new way. Leaning on CHRIST to carry me through.
Ok, you are probably saying “Deni, really? Bringing CHRIST into such a trivial situation??

My reply is yes! I want to bring CHRIST into ALL my situations.

We do not know who we touch each day. We do not know the circumstances of the person we pass as we walk; the cashier at the grocery store, the mom standing in line with her child at the school, the co-worker who is quiet with a smile..... we do not know what kind of challenge they face? Sickness? Financial strife? Relationship gone sour? Drug addiction?

And you know what? Extending a smile, a kind word actually does go a long way. It may even make a huge difference. You may not know it, you probably won’t receive a smile back or even a word..

Remember this though....Colossians 3:12 exclaims “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience;”

We are not told “only when the circumstance allows” or when kindness is shown to us- nope.... we put on a heart of kindness always!

We may not know the impact of that kindness to another but GOD does!
We may not know the impact of that prayer extended, but GOD does!
So, today - I ask:

FATHER, cloak me with kindness, love and mercy for whom all I encounter today in spite of how I may feel.

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