Be Patient With Difficult People

The person ahead of you at the checkout snaps at the cashier. She’s trying to help, and their tone makes you angry. By the time you reach the counter, you’ve already decided what kind of person they are. It happens quickly. We see a few seconds of someone’s behavior and feel we know enough. Yet we’ve all had moments when exhaustion or worry came out in our voice, and we hoped someone would just give us a little grace.

Paul calls those who belong to Christ to put on compassion. He begins by reminding them they are loved by God, because that kind of love shapes how they treat others. You may never learn what was behind that stranger’s sharp words. Regardless, you can still speak with patience and treat them with dignity. Remember how patient Jesus has been with you. Let His kindness shape you and how you would respond, especially when dealing with difficult people.