You Asked For It – Part 3 // Dealing with Difficult People

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”  (Matthew 5:43-48)

How to respond when faced with difficult people and situations

1 . Pray for

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (James 1:5)

2 . Respond with :

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1)

“Let your conversation be always with grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”                                                                                                                                                                                               (Colossians 4:6)

3 . Show Love and

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:27-28)

What to avoid when faced with difficult people and situations

1 . Do Not Seek :

“So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?”         (Romans 2:3-4)

“Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am LORD“    (Leviticus 19:18)

2 . Be Slow to :

“A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.” (Proverbs 15:18)

3 . Carefully Choose Your :

“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered.”(Proverbs 22:24)