Daily Devotional for March 26, 2021

Two days ago, Jack turned 89 years old.  I love Jack so I thought the perfect gift was to call and sing Happy Birthday.

When Jack answered the phone, I sang my heart out.  I heard people in the hall, outside my office, laugh, groan, and sigh. 

After singing on the same level as Luciano Pavarotti, I knew Jack was impressed.  Then he said, “The Lord had to help you with that.”  This got me thinking.

Either Jack was complimenting my singing voice, his hearing aids weren’t working properly, or he was subtly suggesting that my singing voice wasn’t up to par.

I don’t know what Jack meant, but I know Jack.  He’s a man of grace, humility, and would never say anything he thought would be hurtful.  I decided he was giving me a compliment.  This got me thinking.

Communication is an imperfect art.  It is very frustrating because no matter how well you believe your communication, it can be taken the wrong way.  If you don’t believe me, ask God.

God actually became one of us to communicate love and save us from ourselves.  Yet we demonstrate by what we say, think, and do, that we don’t always get it.  Shannon calls this selective hearing.

In those moments when you are wondering what someone meant, always err on the side of grace.
Too many needless controversies between couples, parents, children, coworkers, and politicians happen because someone takes something the wrong way.  These bad interpretations always lead to trouble.  So, don’t let it happen.

I am truly convinced life is too short to get upset by the questionable comments of others.  So, always go with the positive.  It makes life easier.

This is what Paul meant by saying, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.  Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.    And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”  (Colossians 3:12-14)

Today, there is a good chance someone will say something offensive, critical, or hurtful.  Shake it off and move on.  You will be glad you did.

Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, give me the hide of a rhino and the heart of a dove.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

Err on the side of grace and make life easy and enjoyable.  It’s the right answer.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins