Oppositive of the negative, you say, what kind of talk is that? Well, let me explain it to you. In order to truly touch and influence the lives around us, one important mind-set needs to be settled. Do the opposite of the negative.
The Bible says in Psalms 51:5 [Amplified] "I was brought forth in [state of] wickedness. In sin my mother conceived me [and from my beginning I, too, was sinful]. Wow, what a powerful statement. When we understand that, it gives us a whole new perspective when we're dealing with people. Our nature is one of having the ability to err. Until that nature is changed, we'll continue to err more frequently and in turn irritate others. People have a case of (the can't help it). It's what they were born to do, whether it's the way they respond to people in what they say, or in what they do negative towards people in their actions.
When we have a lack of understanding of the nature of people absent from Christ, we respond with corresponding negative responses. It's hard to react positively with people who react negatively with us even with Christ in our lives. We have to understand that everyone isn't in Christ so all the more there has to be an understanding of this principle in the Bible in Luke 23:34 [NKJV] "Then Jesus said, "Father forgive them for they do not know what they do." I know you're saying, they knew, and know exactly what they said or did to you, but when you truly understand the true nature of humanity, we need to overlook the way they are, and what they say, by understanding the nature of fallen humanity. When we truly understand human nature without Christ in what they say and do, then we can react with them in a more positive way.
I'm challenging us to to react "Opposite of the Negative." We're going to see at times more negative than positive when we encounter people. We have to have a heart of forgiveness, understanding and love. We have to do good in spite of the way they are. Who knows, you may spark in someone a heart of sensitivity towards others even as you have imparted this understanding to them. I'll be the first to say, this task isn't easy, but if we're going to experience better relationships with our families, friends, and associates, we have to desire and endeavor to do the opposite of the negative of what we see and hear.
Please share your comments. Let us know that this platform is helpful to you or how we can serve you in your quest to touch and influence lives.
