March 25, 2009

• Toxic Fumes/Fresh Air

  Usually when people get frustrated about someone, they like to vent about it with a friend or anyone who will listen.  They consider venting, “letting out some steam,” and they think its a healthy way to feel better.  But to be honest, I’ve never witnessed a single “venting session” where anything ended up positive.  The truth is, venting usually is done just to make a person feel justified for their dislike/bitterness/anger towards another.  And if they feel justified, then their dislike/bitterness/anger only intensifies.  And I’ve noticed that often those who allow others to vent will begin showing the same symptoms.  The venting has only served to pollute the air and make things worse. 

  Venting destroys family, friendship, churches, and fellowships.  It is immature, selfish, and loaded with pride.  It needs to be cut off immediately.

  I find the opposite of venting is praise and thanks.  The Lord calls us to bless our enemies.  He calls us to love others just as He loved us.  He loved us by enduring our insults, torture, and sin by dying for us and covering us with His grace.  I’ve found that praise and thanks actually purifies the air and grants people the right perspective.  When we remember who we are before God and when we remember that none of us are perfect yet God still accepts us, the ability to forgive and show grace to others increases.  So the next time frustration kicks in and you want to let some steam out, let it out by giving praise to God and choosing to surrender it all to the Lord. 

  Colossians 3:15 – Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.  And be thankful. 

  • 10:18 am
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