In His Eyes
In His Eyes
Who is wise and has understanding among you? He should show his works by good conduct with wisdom’s gentleness. (James 3:13)
My boss asked for my input on a project that a team of coworkers had been wrestling with for a while. I sat in on their meetings and made a few suggestions about how to resolve the issues they were having in implementing the new program. I also offered some new ideas that could help make certain phases of the project run smoother.
Janet, one of my coworkers, immediately jumped on one of my ideas, telling the group how it wouldn’t work. In fact, in the days that followed, Janet was quick to voice opposition, no matter what I said.
Baffled and hurt by her response, I talked to my husband about Janet’s anger. “Kay, you know that anger is usually a response for something that’s deeper inside the heart. Janet may be feeling threatened by your ideas and suggestions because this is her job,” he said.
“But our boss put me on the project,” I said.
“Yes, but Janet might feel afraid for her job. She might be hurt because she couldn’t pull her part of the project together.”
Over the next few weeks, I prayed for Janet every day. I did all I could to be gracious and kind to her. I continued to do my job with integrity. And although I don’t know what God is doing in her heart, I know He’s drawing my heart closer to His. I know He’s doing a work in me.
Anger is a normal, God-given emotion, but its cause is usually deeper than the surface issue. If you are feeling angry, ask God to show you the root cause of your anger. And if you are the brunt of someone’s anger, talk to the Lord about that too.