The power to choose

 You're in a miserable mood (let's just say you are; we all find ourselves in that place at some point). You don't want to talk and you don't want to be talked to. Is there anything wrong with that? Well, not necessarily, if you're a hermit. Or alone. But what if you're not alone?

 Our moods not only bother us, but they can also hurt others. You may be surprised at how sensitive people are to your ups and downs. How we feel, or rather, how we act, affects other people. More than we realize. So, if you're acting on your feelings rather than on the character that God is building in you, then those around you are at risk of being hurt.

 "But how others feel is not my responsibility." Really? We are examples of Christ. Selfless. Thinking of others. Considering others. Loving others. That is part of our calling. "But it's unfair! Can't I have a bad day?" Sure. But those bad days should become less and less as you grow in the character of Jesus.

 How? Consider the power of choice that the Holy Spirit enables us with. We have the freedom to choose. We always have. It started with Adam and Eve and continues with us. But the power to choose what is right is an awesome gift given to us by the Lord, and we have the power to choose above how we feel.

 That's right, we don't have to be dictated by our feelings. God has given us a new heart. We are new creations in Christ. We are presented with a new mind; a new attitude. We are invited to have the same attitude that Jesus had. He's given us the gift of peace and we can apply that to our lives. Circumstances that drive our feelings don't have to drive us.

 We can be led.

 Ask Him. He'll enable you. The next time you're in a bad mood and just want to grunt at those around you, remind yourself that His peace is His gift to you. And ask Him for help. Will it take practice? Yes. Will your disposition improve with time and practice? Yes. 

Believe me, those around you will thank you.

 (Photographs by H.G. Furcinitti)

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