“The thing to do is to add light, not heat, to the situation.” -Woodrow Wilson
Interesting quote, isn’t it? Especially since Jesus also called us to be light to our world.
I wish I was naturally given to illuminating the situation when I’m under pressure, instead of getting really angry! Instead, I’m often guilty of adding heat, rather than light, when I am hard pressed. I’m guilt of reacting, instead of responding.
Left alone, we find ourselves in darkness. With the flip of the switch (or the swipe of a match) we can have light. Therein lies the problem. Light-filled living takes effort.
When I am in a confrontation, I have a choice. I can allow a hot-tempered response, stemming from the dark parts of my soul, or I can choose to be light. I can choose self-control. I can choose my words. It’s difficult, but necessary, if I am truly a Christ-follower.
Thanks for this word, Christy. I’ve often found myself in situations lately where I’ve reacted in anger or out of hurt. I appreciate the reminder that I can choose my responses. Please continue your writing – it is God-inspired and changes me in some way every time I read it.