When We’re Not “Treated Right”
“It’s about time!” I said as I plopped my items on the checkout counter at the local drugstore. As soon as the words came out, my face burned with embarrassment.
“I’m so sorry,” I quickly said to the cashier.
I wasn’t the only one who was frustrated by the way the cashier laughed and chatted with a coworker between customers. But I knew my tone wasn’t what Jesus’ would have been. I wish it was rare for me to show such impatience. It sobers me when I wonder how badly I may have affected their day with my rudeness.
In the Bible, 1 Corinthians 13 is often referred to as the “love chapter.” The first three verses clearly state we are nothing (a “useless nobody” AMPC) whenever we do anything without love.
This week we begin to focus on how love behaves by looking at 1 Corinthians 13:4 (ESV):
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant.
If the English Standard Version isn’t convicting enough, let’s read the same verse in the Amplified Bible, Classic Edition:
Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily.
If we were to grade ourselves on how well we live out each command in this verse, what kind of grade would we give ourselves? Would our spouses give us the same score? What about our children?
What about God?
Perhaps our answers will motivate us to meditate on – and apply – 1 Corinthians 13:4 with renewed determination. In order to glean all we can from this packed verse, let’s focus on one challenge per week.
This week, we’ll focus on patience.
As we think about God’s patience toward us, perhaps we’ll behave more patiently as we extend grace toward our spouses, children, fellow drivers, phone systems that keep us on hold, and yes, even inconsiderate store cashiers. With God’s help, I want to live and speak in a way that will change another person’s day in a positive way, don’t you?
This certainly would be better than having to apologize for my rudeness at the checkout line – again.
Let’s pray:
Father, forgive us for our sinful reactions when someone doesn’t “treat us right.” Teach us what it means to endure long instead of responding with a knee-jerk reaction to others’ inconsiderate and rude behavior. Fill us with Your love and patience as we recall how often others – and You – have been patient toward us. Amen.
What about you?
I’d love to hear your thoughts about this post. (Others might also benefit from your comment.)
- Would you be willing to seek God’s help to be more patient with “that” person for the rest of today, one instance at a time?
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I know I have been there, done that! These moments are tricky. I once heard teaching from Joseph Stowell (sp?) about grace moments, times we either show anger or grace. But the scene with the cashier was also a teachable moment for all involved. Maybe a practiced response not so short and snappy would be more appropriate next time. “I hate to interupt a good time, but I really need some help here, and so do the others in line.” I don’t know if it would work or not, but if not, I would report the cashier to the manager. Some people are clueless and need to know.
God disciplines those He loves.It takes time and care to discipline but in the long run, it results in a more loving and smoothly running society.
Great suggestion, Janice! I believe in prepared responses. Thank you!
Also, thank you again for dropping by. I love hearing from you.
I can say that I’m ashamed of my past behavior in a lot of areas. Through a lot of prayer, I’ve finally developed the habit of kindness and patience.
It took a lot of work through payers throughout the day and even night. I’m not perfect but the difference is remarkable and even my husband has noticed. We haven’t had an argument for a long time now.
What a blessing from the Lord. Only through Him have things greatly improved.
How encouraging, Sandra! Praise God. Imagine where (rather, how) we’d be without God’s transforming grace!
Thank you for stopping by!
He has made all the difference in my world. It’s amazing and thrilling life changes can make dye to prayer and faith.
Indeed! Indeed.
Would you be willing to seek God’s help to be more patient with “that” person for the rest of today, one instance at a time?
As usual, Sheryl, I’m convicted by my impatience in lines, and when I was younger could be indignant about it. Now that I’m older, retired and have more time, though, and God has worked on me being more patient and kind, I’ve come a long way in this regard! Thanks again for making scripture applicable in our every day lives!
Praise God!! It’s encouraging to hear how God is working in you, Kim.
And thank you for the compliment!