In the past, I’ve written about reasons church leaders and members can be mean:
10 Reasons Some Pastors are Mean
9 Reasons Some Church Members are Mean
Today, though, I’m thinking about times when I can be mean. I don’t think it happens often, but I know there are times when I’m short or unkind toward those I love:
- When I’m really tired. I can no longer stay up all night to get something done without it affecting my attitude. I need rest—and others sometimes pay the price when I don’t get it.
- When I’ve said “yes” too much. Even at age 60, I’m still learning how to say “no.” I never want to turn down an opportunity, but my failure to say “no” often results in my being overwhelmed, anxious, . . . and mean.
- When I’ve spent too little time in the Word and in prayer. I suspect most of us expect a preacher/professor to focus on lapsed spiritual disciplines, but I’ve learned this truth for me: if I’m not listening to God and speaking to Him, I usually don’t pay godly attention to others, either.
- When I’ve failed someone, made a mistake, or blatantly sinned. I not only take it personally when I mess up, but I can also dwell on that mistake in an unhealthy way (that is, in an idolatrous way). That self-centeredness seldom results in kindness to others.
- When I’m not regularly exercising. In those times, my lack of discipline in working out is often reflected in weak discipline in other areas of my life. I get tired and cranky more easily then (see #1 above).
- When I’m rebelling against what I believe is God’s will. My problem at times is that I haven’t always followed God’s will with abandon and joy. Sometimes, I’ve grudgingly said “yes” to Him—and my struggle with obedience affects how I treat others.
My prayer today is that I will hear my own words and win the battle with “meanness” throughout the day. How about you?
