Difficult People: Devotions From Time Of Grace预览

The toad

This may seem unkind, but some people are difficult to deal with because they act like toads. They’re just there. They blend in with their surroundings, and you have to almost step on them to get them moving. When they do jump, it’s not very far. And the poor things have warts. They don’t distinguish themselves in any noticeable way. Frogs croak, but I have no idea what noise toads make or what they contribute to an ecosystem. Toads need a shot of enthusiasm, and they may need to get it from you.

Never underestimate the power of transferable energy. Motivated people can help unmotivated people get moving. Just about everyone responds to encouragement from an upbeat person. There must have been some toad whisperers in Corinth. The Macedonians were moved to give generously by the example of generous Corinthians. Paul commented on the transference: “Your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action” (2 Corinthians 9:2).

Toads aren’t happy about their toadyness either. They have feelings too. Soaring with the eagles may be unattainable, but they might like to try to keep up with the frogs. So, “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). Remember, “love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud” (1 Corinthians 13:4). It’s not about feeling superior. It’s all about picking up the toads.

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