A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention. – Proverbs 15:18 ESV
A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends. – Proverbs 16:28 ESV
A greedy man stirs up strife, but the one who trusts in the Lord will be enriched. – Proverbs 28:25 ESV
What do all of these scriptures have in common?
Read over them again.
Anger, dishonesty & greed are all transgressions that lead to conflict. Said another way, a sinful lifestyle leads to caustic relationships with others.
BUT…
When we conform our lives to the will of our Creator we begin to exhibit love, joy, peace,patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23 ESV)
And those positive attributes (fruits of the spirit) are an obvious choice of the better option!!! Praying for those who aren’t following Him and are without them.
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Great contrast! Two different lives with two different results. Choose life that you may live.
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YES!!
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YES!!!!!!
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Great contrast! Two different lifestyles with two different outcomes. Choose life that you may live.
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AMEN, Chris!
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This says to me that giving full vent to negative emotions is often a bad idea. Thanks, Barb!
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Good point, David!
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Great reminder to live by the fruit of the Spirit Barb. Reflecting upon these verses today.
FMF#19
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I’m glad my words spoke to you, Paula.
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Yes, seeking the fruits of the Holy Spirit should be our continuous focus Barb. Thank you 😊
Blessings,
Jennifer
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It seems many people today are angry, dishonest & greedy. So it’s very important for us to stay close to the Lord and exhibit the fruit of the Spirit. Thanks for sharing this.
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Amen.
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I hope to be one who spurs others closer to God rather than one who stirs up trouble.
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AMEN to that!
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Showing love is always the Jesus way! Thanks for the encouragement, Barb!
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Great reminders not to stir up trouble. Thanks Barb. Your FMF neighbour at #9 this week.
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Joanne Viola of http://www.joanneviola.com/ sent the following comment:
We have a choice to make as to what our lives will cultivate. May I live in such a way that my life bears good fruit and blesses others. May my life stir up good qualities in those around me and draw them to our Lord. That is my prayer. Blessings!
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Amen!
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