Being patient with difficult people.

This evening I found myself in the drive through at Wendy's. After ordering I pull up to the first window (only feet from the second...what's with that??). Then I headed to the second window and they handed me my drink and told me it would be a minute on my order. While I waited I spied a car that was plastered with bumper stickers. After seeing the rainbow sticker I knew it wouldn't be a car that I would love to read it's stickers. It was plagued with riddles and jabs at Christianity. At one time in life this would have enraged me. Over the years I have begun to see things differently. In the light of this scripture we should all take note:

"Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.

Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants." - II Tim 2:22-27

Those stickers weren't bought to just for decoration on the car. They were there to offend. So thinking about that we can't allow that to entice us to argue or fight with someone with their belief. Here is an opportunity to exercise patience, kindness and love. To break down the anger barriers set up by these people means we have to love them and be patient. In that we may have the chance to show them the REAL truth.