SPOTLIGHT

Have you ever had an unexpected knock at your door? You immediately get a rush of anxiousness knowing you are not presentable because you are still in your PJ’s with bedhead. Then you wonder who it could be... another level of anxiety. So you quickly make yourself up, throw everything from the table into the closet, and answer the door with an “Oscar winning smile” knowing good and well you were not prepared for this visitor.

It’s inevitable that in our everyday lives something will knock on our door that catches us off guard. The question is, “Are we prepared for it?” It’s not going to be Amazon, your neighbor, or a salesman. It’s going to be hot topics like social, cultural, and ethical issues. The knock will come from instigators, manipulators, the media, the crowd, the enemy of our soul. What

happens to your senses, your thoughts, your words, your demeanor, your spirit when you are put in a Hot Spot?

Is there anger? Resentment? Unforgiveness? Social media ranting? Or is there prayer, compassion, empathy, healthy conversations, and grace?

Christ provides us with the ultimate example on how to handle difficult matters. When the crowd brought the woman caught in adultery to Jesus (John 8), he did not dismiss her. He asked the accusers that were sinless to throw the first stone and they ended up dismissing

themselves. Culture and crowd said to stone her. Christ and his compassion saved her.

Don’t be afraid to stand alone and stand for truth, justice, and life; but use your voice wisely and in a timely manner. Speak in love and kindness — that’s what our Savior did.

Be confident in knowing who you are because Christ lives in you, and He is who we represent. It is imperative that we study God’s word and know His ways and principles in order to distinguish what truth to stand on. The next knock on the door will not catch you off guard. You are ready and willing!

LOOK IT UP

“To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31,32 (NLT)

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” Hebrews 4:12 (NLT)

KEYWORDS

• preparedness
• confidence
• humility
• compassion
• respectful
• conviction
  

BLINDSPOTS

Let’s reprogram our minds from some distorted perspectives we’ve latched onto over the years.

• Has there been a controversial issue that has caused you to react in an unloving manner? Maybe there is an apology you may need to give someone. Just a reminder — it’s okay to use that delete button.
  
  
• What is your first response when someone comes against your beliefs? Are you bold and obnoxious? Or are you confident, yet humble and respectful?
  

PUT IT INTO ACTION

BODY
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