Over the weekend, I had two contractors come to my house. One gave me a quote on a countertop for a divider wall, the other for windows. They were both from the same home improvement company but were as different as night and day.
The first one was very condescending. I guess because I was a woman, he didn’t think I knew anything about countertops. After he explained something, he’d say, “you understand?” and then he’d go on to show me pictures of what he was talking about. Trust me, what he was telling me wasn’t complicated. He also made a couple of what I considered disparaging remarks about women. (It usually takes them an hour to decide on a color, a woman’s favorite place in a house is the kitchen, stuff like that.)
The second salesman was totally different. He was friendly, asked reasonable questions, and listened to my answers. We ended up talking about the northwest more than anything else. I don’t know about you, but I know which man I’d rather purchase from.
Later that day, I got to thinking, aren’t Christians a lot like these two men? Some are very friendly and show love towards nonbelievers, while others are condescending. Whose God would you rather know, Mr. Friendly’s or Mr. Condescending’s?
Philippians 2:14-15 tells us to Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world. You can tell good Christians by their glow.
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Glow wherever you go and let the light of God reflect in the world around you. You carry the light of God and wherever you pass, darkness must flee. – Israelmore Ayivor, inspirational author
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I’ve met several people who are considered “good” Christians, but I have a hard time believing it. They grouse all the time and never seem to have joy in their hearts. If you honestly believe Jesus loves you, then shouldn’t you be happy. And wouldn’t you want to share that happiness with others?
Too often Christians come across as too good to be seen with a nonbeliever. We hang with our church sisters, never stepping out in the store line to help someone who might need God in their lives. But if we show joy and kindness, wouldn’t others want to have what we have?
The last thing any Christian should want is to be condescending to the point no one wants to know their God. So put a smile on your face and show love to all. You never know who might be saved because of your friendly attitude.
If you or someone you know is in need of prayer, please let me know in the comment section, and I’ll be happy to pray for the situation.
🙂