You will either respond or react to situations that are beyond your control, so make the choice in advance as to what you will do.
To react means you give back the same thing that was given to you in much the same manner.
To respond acts in return, but in a positive way.
These words are very powerful! You may not have control over many of the things that happen to you, but you can ALWAYS have control over how you respond to them.
It is important for the Christian to walk with God on a daily basis. When you do that, your mind is set in a spiritual mode, and not in a fleshly one. You have already decided that you want your actions to please God.
When I truly make up my mind about something, I set it firmly and am not easily persuaded to act differently. I believe I know the truth and am acting totally and completely upon what I believe. My actions will naturally follow with passion and determination.
Even though you have no idea what might happen in the future, you can be prepared for almost anything. You have already decided that you will think before you speak or act. Living your life this way can save you much heartache and regret.
When you react to whatever comes your way, your flesh takes control and does whatever it feels at the moment. That is when you do things that might hurt your testimony as a Christian.
Unbelievers are always watching to see if a Christian acts any differently when they go through tough times. Don’t allow your emotions to take control. You may never get a chance to undo the damage you have done as far as that one person or incident is concerned.
The Christian will never have to live with regret if he will learn to hear the Holy Spirit when He speaks. He is waiting patiently to give guidance and direction to walk in the truth. All you have to do is ask Him to take control of your speech, hearing, and thinking.
You will find that you are more aware of things going on around you, and will have more discernment than you did before.
Also, make the choice to study your Bible on a daily basis and spend time in prayer seeking direction. Put God first in your everyday life. All you need to do is make the first step. He will meet you wherever you are.
The leadership of the Holy Spirit is the only way that you can respond instead of react to something that happens in an instant.
We as Christians need to be light to a world that is looking for something real, but trying to find it everywhere except in God.
The next time something unexpected happens, make sure that you respond in a way that will be pleasing to God.
