Both my wife and I are quarantined together with the kids because none of our jobs are “essential” according to the government. Let me tell you. You think you know a person until you are around them 24/7 for weeks on end.

We knew we needed structure and a plan when my wife finally said, “Do you have to blink so loudly?” But seriously, when we are “stuck” with each other, we soon realize we cannot change the people around us. However, God can change how we can react to them. Through our actions, he can change their reactions toward us.

You must remember that actions speak louder than words. You might be stuck with people at your job that you don’t like but still have to work with, or family members with whom you do not get along, but remember this — you might be the only Bible that they come to know.

The verse today says to keep away from every believer who is idle, disruptive, and does not live according to teaching. That's so they don’t influence us. But we can still influence them. In the meantime, we must behave in a way that is pleasing to Christ toward everyone so they may be convicted and change their behavior as Christ speaks through us.

When it comes to dealing with others, believers or not, we must control what we can control, act the way Christ wants, and then let God work on their hearts. Let his will be done.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for using me as a visual representation of what you want a Christian to be. Help me to remember that I mess up, but even so others can view you working in me, as that can be a way to see into your heart. Please help me to help as many people as possible through my actions so they may see your love firsthand. In Jesus name, amen.

Go Deeper — How do you think you can keep away and still be Christ to people who are disruptive? If you are having difficulty in a relationship, our free, online mentors may be able to help.



Tags: 1&2 Thessalonians 2 Thessalonians 3
Photo Credit: Bluehouse Skis