Growing Up
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials …so that you may be mature. James 1:2-4
My neighbor Helen worked as a volunteer each Tuesday at the hospital. She loved her job and looked forward to going to work. However, that changed abruptly.
One afternoon when we were talking, she confided, “I dread going to work this week. A new volunteer started there last Tuesday, and she’s so unpleasant. Spending the day with her is a trial. Would you pray for me when I have to be around Ms. Grumpy?”
I assured Helen I would, and every Tuesday I prayed for her several times. Gradually, I saw her enthusiasm for her job return. I decided to ask what had happened.
The next time we talked, I said, “You seem to be happy again about working at the hospital. What’s up with that? Has Ms. Grumpy gotten nicer?”
Helen smiled. “No, she’s still grouchy and mean. I’ve never had to work beside anyone like that, and I didn’t know how to handle it.
“At first I tried to calmly explain when she did something offensive, but that didn’t help. She said I was too sensitive. Then I considered snapping back when she was rude, but I decided that would only make matters worse.
“Finally, I realized she wasn’t going to change, so it was up to me. I decided when she offended me, I would forgive her and let go of my anger. Once I began doing that, I felt much better.
“Being around her is a challenge, but God’s using the situation to teach me patience and help me grow spiritually.”
Lord, remind us that having difficult people in our lives is an opportunity for spiritual growth and refinement.
Carol Conser