[188 words]
This week, we witnessed first-hand what happens when negative emotions are allowed to dominate our thinking. We watched as folks – most of which had good intentions – stormed our capitol building in Washington, D.C.
Property was damaged. Individuals were injured. People lost their lives. And now, their very cause has earned disrespect.
I am not going to get into the politics of the event but only point out that when negative emotions are allowed to dominate our thinking, similar chaos and rioting is often the result. In other places, like Austin, the same type of protest was made with a difference. It was peaceful and it didn’t bring the same results.
God created us with emotions. They are good and each has its place in our lives. But the greatest emotion is love not hate (1 Corinthians 13). The love of God can cause us to hate. But it should not result in the hate of others. Only in the hate of the bad actions of others.
“By this,” says Jesus, “everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35).
Larry Fitzgerald
Woodlawn church of Christ
Abilene, TX