As our Lord noted it is out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45) and therefore we must remain mindful of what is in the heart — closing guarding it (Proverbs 4:23) — a reality is that we still misspeak. Therefore, as we consider the manner in which we hope others would be gracious toward what we say, so we ought to be toward others; not assuming we know everything behind what is said and misinterpreting its intent. This is of utmost importance in the moments when one is vulnerable enough to pour out the contents of their heart.
There is an Arabian proverb which states, “A friend is one to whom one may pour out the contents of one’s heart, chaff and grain together, knowing that gentle hands will take and sift it, keep what is worth keeping, and with a breath of kindness, blow the rest away.”
Is that not the kind of friends we need? Is that not also the kind of friend we ought to be? It is a kindness to sift and separate between what to retain and what to let go without separating the relationship.
As Paul urged in his Ephesian letter. . .
“(32) Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32 ESV)
This spirit to be associated with our relationships with one another, should naturally be compelled by the acknowledgment of what we ourselves have received from God through Christ. Oh, what a friend we have in Jesus! May we be that kind of friend; a kind one!
Have a great day BEING THE KIND FRIEND WE ALSO DESIRE AND NEED!
Carl
