Learning Grace from others

Jesus said, This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. (Matthew 22:38, 39 KJV)

Okay, I’ll admit it. For years, I was a self-righteous driver. I’ve always stayed close to the speed limit, I give people plenty of room to switch lanes, and I signal before I merge. So, naturally, I expect the same courtesy from everyone else on the road. But I’ve discovered – as I’m sure you have – the roadways don’t usually foster that kind of benevolence. There’s always somebody who zips by at breakneck speeds or who thinks nothing of cutting us off. It can lead to a negative attitude in a hurry. 

But one day it occurred to me: Why not use bad drivers as a way to practice extending grace toward others? Now, I know what you’re thinking... “Grace? That guy weaving in and out of traffic is probably just rude and inconsiderate.” Well, maybe so. Then again, maybe not. For all I know, he could have received some terrible news and is rushing to the hospital or some other emergency. I can’t know for sure the true motivation for the guy’s erratic driving. That’s why, instead of getting angry, I now pray for them. 

Here’s the point: Whether it’s bad drivers, a contentious family member, or that co-worker we struggle with, other people don’t always behave the way we’d like. Our attitude and the way we choose to respond is up to us. So if someone snaps at you, offer them a kind word rooted in God’s grace and love instead of retaliation. Your patient response may be just the thing they need to help their day take a turn for the better.