Charge!

This elephant was grazing beside the road in Kruger National Park and seemed content. Then he turned and looked at us and everything changed. He became annoyed and charged at our vehicle. He was not happy with our car being so close to his space. The loud trumpeting, flapping ears and running gate stuck fear into our hearts! Our heart sank and become flustered. We could not crank the car fast enough and put it in gear!

The twenty-first century has become an interesting place. We have all become complacent about the elephant in the room of life. We ignore the issues, problems, risk and conditions that few want to talk about. People who are zealous for their opinion to be accepted charge the issue like a wild elephant. It has created a situation where no one wants to discuss the issues or make a challenge.

Jesus faced the same elephants in the first century. It seems that his opinion stirred the issues everywhere he went. He caused so much controversy that radical religious leaders sought ways to kill him. It seems that it takes infinite patience, discipline and a gracious tongue to address the elephants in our lives.

Be willing to sit and listen to those who have a difference of opinion. But learn to ask good questions that help sort the issues being discussed.

When necessary, ask hard questions that highlight faulty thinking and unstable hearts. Many dissidents do not have a loving person who will discuss the issues in a rational way. Love them with your attentive ears, tender heart and gracious lips!

Cathy and Danny Sartin
www.deeperstillmissions.com
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