Response

It has been said that, " it's not how we act, but rather how we react." So true.

Throughout the New Testament and the writings that reflect the life of Christ, we can see that the idea of response was critical to his representation of his father's will and purpose. His response to those who accused him verbally, his response to those who beat him physically, his response to those who laughed or mocked him, and his response to those who even followed him. Whether he was responding to the accusers or teaching his followers, each of these situations required a spirit filled response. A type of response that calls for obedience to yield to the glorification of God, in all circumstances.

Responses are inevitable and impactful. In our lives we will be faced with great times and our responses will be generous and overflowing with ease. But we will also face times when our responses will take more yielding and reflection. In our sports leagues we teach our players and coaches how to respond to the calls that go in their favor and how to respond to the calls they do not go in their favor. Depending on the call and the response, it can and will dictate the response of the others in the playing area for the better or the worse. The same is true in our lives and particularly those who are following and trusting Christ.

Our responses are the lamp stands for which others will see or not see Christ's spirit dwelling and living in us. When faced with difficult times, we need to allow our response emotion to yield to the Holy Spirit. It doesn't mean that we will not have emotions that may create anger, worry, or hurt, nor does it mean we lay down softly or do not hold others or ourselves accountable for actions. However, it does mean that as followers of Christ, in the depths of our soul and no matter the situation, we desire to live out 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "Whether I eat or drink, I do all for the glory of God."

In our responses we must reflect on the life of Christ. Reflect on the teachings he gave others when facing specific actions and reactions. Remember, our purpose, like that of Christ's, is to glorify the Father in heaven and provide a lamp stand for others to see. Don't let our emotions control our response. Let's allow our responses to be controlled by Christ so that others may see the difference within us. Remember, we are considered, according to the scripture, peculiar people.