May 2020

I think we can all relate to getting a negative response from a friend or relative where we think “Whoa. Where did that come from?”  Usually it’s a misunderstanding that has resulted in hurt feelings.  I included two entries here because I feel the Lord’s responses were similar.

From the journal . . . . October 2006

. . . Lord, I’m afraid I hurt Martha’s feelings and she hurt mine.  She was explaining to me an idea she had and I didn’t understand her idea.  I tried to question her but she interrupted and said “Oh, it’s 7:30. I’m gone.” And left. . . . Maybe I’m over sensitive but it hurt my feelings. I’m  also wondering if I need to apologize to her?

And I Believe God Said:

Value her.  You feel hurt because you felt a lack of respect.   Everyone needs to feel respected and valued.  Don’t pull away when you feel hurt.  Don’t sulk.  Admit your hurt to Me.  Forgive the person and recommit to love and accept.*  If the offence re-occurs, consider talking about it.  Be open.  It’s true that you are sensitive.

Luke 6:27-28

This word has been very significant to me.  In fact I wrote it on my kitchen white board to remind me and it is still there!  It says: “Admit hurts.  Forgive hurts.” If I don’t think ‘hurt’ is an appropriate response, I tend to stuff that feeling instead of dealing with it.

This next entry was similar but the focus was on the unintentional hurt of another person and how I should respond.

From the journal . . . . July 2016

. . .Lord, I know that Connie was hurt by something I said or did and that’s how she responds.  I want to avoid a repeat of it but my solution would be to withdraw.  Withhold.  But I suspect that isn’t Your solution.

And I Believe the Lord Said:

Love at all times.  Don’t try to fix her.  Remember to speak what is good. Listen to her words. Be slow to anger*, even with her texts.  Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right – Think on those things. Don’t be afraid to speak the truth in love when it’s necessary for love’s sake.  And if she reacts in anger or defense  – give her time.  Call on me when anger comes upon you.  And be sensitive to me concerning her readiness to listen.

 1Cor 13 James 1:19  Phil 4:8.