"You Never Know"

Something to Ponder

Several years ago I had the privilege of going to Kentucky when my baby sister was having her first baby. My family lives in Lexington where the University of Kentucky is located. Being a college town you can always expect massive traffic delays any time there is a sporting event. On the way to the hospital to see my new niece I got caught up in all the traffic. I was in the middle lane and I needed to be in the right lane in order to turn into the hospital parking lot. Even though my car blinkers were on, no one was letting me over (I guess they were going to be late for the game.) Finally, I opened up the passenger side window and got the attention of the lady next to me (that was in the right lane.) I asked her very politely if I could please get over because I needed to go to the hospital to see my sister. She took one look at me and with glaring eyes screamed, "Nooooo, I'm going to church!" I can promise you that the graphic I used in no way comes close to the mean look she was giving me. Well, as you can imagine, I was quite taken aback, to say the least.

That little incident made a big impression on me. And do you know what? The more I thought about it, the more convicted I became. It made me realize that every time I open my mouth to speak I have a choice. I can either choose to speak words that are kind or uplifting, or words that are unkind and uncaring. So now I ask myself, "what are people hearing when I speak?"


I am also very aware now that people are watching my actions. I now ask myself, "do I treat people with kindness and respect? Am I always willing to lend a helping hand when needed? Do I show genuine concern for others?" On the flip side, am I impatient and short with others? Do I choose to walk away from a situation where I know I can be of help? What are my actions saying to others?


For me it all boils down to this: Do my actions and words make people want to know Jesus, or do they make them turn away? Ouch.... Double Ouch..... Triple Ouch..... Talk about being convicted! Just something to ponder...................