I recently read a tweet which said, “Being a jerk to everyone you think is wrong about stuff is not a mark of orthodoxy or courage but of arrogance and fear. The saints used to pray for “mellowness of soul.” This is a good prayer. (from Tish Harrison Warren)
I loved this tweet. Unfortunately, the political climate of the past year has given some Christians the belief that they can be “unkind” in the name of Jesus because they think they are “right.”
During the past year, I think Brian and I have received more unkind and way out of control emails than any year in the past. They have been from Christians of course. (Christians who somehow have forgotten about the fruit of the spirit when emailing other Christians.)
Christian character is marked by the fruit of the spirit: Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
My prayer is that we at the Vineyard will not be jerks for Jesus. I’m so thankful for so many wonderful believers here at Vineyard North Phoenix who do exhibit the fruit of the spirit.
Blessings,
Thora
The title is kind of funny—but reality sad. It’s a shame you guys take the brunt of nitpicking for sharing the gospel and your lives.
For me I think I’ll take up that “mellowness of soul”prayer.
“And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”
Colossians 3:17 NLT
I’m really sorry people have been unkind to you and Brian. I guess hard times don’t always bring out the best in people. Please remember that many people love you and are immensely grateful for your faithful work for the Lord.
When ever I have to make a difficult decision, I ask myself what would Jesus do.