Slow to Anger
"My dear brothers and sisters, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger."
—James 1:19, CSB
My husband pulled into a parking spot at the bank. Before he could turn off the car, the person next to us began honking at the truck in front of him. The driver of the truck was reversing, and the honking driver feared his car might be hit. The man honking was an elderly Hispanic gentleman, clearly concerned about his vehicle.
The driver of the truck was a young white man, likely in his mid-to-late thirties. He got out of his vehicle and walked over to the elderly man, speaking to him rudely. The Hispanic man quickly apologized, saying, "I was just concerned you were going to hit my car. I’m sorry."
Meanwhile, my husband got out of the car and headed into the bank, the same place the young man was going. The elderly man remained seated in his car.
As I waited for my husband to return, I watched the young man exit the bank and walk straight over to the Hispanic man. To my surprise, he apologized. "I’m sorry for being such an asshole. I would have reacted the same way. I’m truly sorry."
The elderly man responded with gratitude, "Thank you." Then, they both went on their way.
When my husband returned to the car, I asked him, "Did you say anything to that young man?"
"Yeah," he replied. "I told him that the gentleman was a little older and probably just frightened."
I then shared with my husband what I had witnessed.
It is so easy to judge others, especially in a world where racism is so prevalent. But if we choose love instead, God can work on hearts and bring glory to Himself in every situation. I was deeply moved by how God used three men of different nationalities to demonstrate that love can transform any moment. If we walk in love, He will work everything out.
Key Takeaways:
Do not let the thought of racism lead your heart toward judgment instead of love.
When we walk in love, we allow God to do His best work through us.
Love is the true change agent.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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