Temptation arises and the conscience warns of impending danger – Rationalization: “Because I already hate sin as a general rule, I can be near temptation without desiring it or becoming vulnerable” Temptation intensifies – Rationalization: “I’ve been doing well spiritually, what possible damage could result from merely ‘noticing’ trouble?” Sinful desires begin to consume the thought life – Rationalization: “My life is very difficult, so how am I supposed to be strong all the time? Can I be expected to hold off every powerful enticement when I’m under such pressure?” The conscience screams reminders about truth, family, friends, and consequences – Rationalization: “Since I’m alone, none of those I love will be affected; and besides, this is a small sin compared to what I’ve seen others do.” Sin prevails with the attendant guilt – Rationalization: “I’m not as bad as others; I know God will forgive me; I’ll just leave this between me and Him; I don’t need anyone’s help because they’ll just be judgmental.” Sin continues as a pattern, truth becomes dull, and sensations of guilt fade – Rationalization: “People can be so legalistic; they think they’re the only ones that do anything right; God is much more loving and He wants me to be happy.”
Jerry Wragg

41 GETTING ON WITH OTHERS

41 GETTING ON WITH OTHERS F O O T ================================

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READING

41 GETTING ON WITH OTHERS

PRAY Improve my relationships with others as a result of reading your word, loving Lord. —————————————————————- READ Proverbs 25:1-28. —————————————————————- THINK What, do you think, is the main point of this chapter? —————————————————————- FOCUS Four of today’s sayings were taken up and amplified (or emphasized) by Jesus in his teachings. DON’T PROMOTE YOURSELF (6,7; see luke 14:7-11). King Solomon was concerned with people at court, whereas Jesus chose the more common setting of a wedding feast for his teaching. But the point they make is exactly the same – those who push themselves are liable to find themselves snubbed. DON’T PROSECUTE YOUR NEIGHBOUR (8; see Matthew 5:25). On a purely practical level it is unwise to take hasty action without considering carefully all the evidence; you may be caught out! But Christians have a much better motive than this for not rushing to the lawyers; we are all sinners, and we all depend on God’s forgiveness. So we do better to forgive also. DON’T PROCLAIM YOUR GRIEVANCES (9,10; see Matthew 5:43-45). Instead of complaining to the neighbours, talk to the person concerned. DON’T PROLONG YOUR ANXIETIES (21,22; see Matthew 5:43-45). How are we to treat our enemies (21)? At first glance the reason for this seems rather dubious (22). But the burning coals refer to the person’s conscience, not to any judgement upon him. Of course we must not use kindness to take revenge! But the best weapon with which to confront your opponent is love – that way you destroy the enmity not the enemy. —————————————————————- PRAY Are there any relationships that you need to put right? Pray about them now and ask God to give you wisdom, humility and grace. ============