(Or, perhaps, it is Your TRUTH that is showing.)
The old folks would say, “the truth will always come out; just give it time”. Boy weren’t they right!
Have you ever been in the presence of someone who is a “know-it-all”? Perhaps they really possess expert level knowledge or education, but the way they deliver that information makes their presence repulsive.
They are usually the ones that say, “I was just trying to help” or “I’m just sharing with you what I know”. Oh, how they love to criticize, tell you what to do or revel in the opportunity to say something negative in a condescending spirit. Mind you, they never take their own advice or, at best, try to sweep their dirt under the carpet (which never works, although you’re too nice to throw up in their face what you know).
Nevertheless, whether “friend”, foe, church leader or a frequent contact, your interaction with them provide the most teachable moments. Here’s what I learned (and how you can keep your sanity):
- Some people are blind, immune or void of humanity in certain areas (common sense isn’t always common)
- Some operate and lead with their insecurities and pain, especially the ones that are not dealt with: their insecurity inspired reactions reek like cheap perfume or an alcoholic’s breath
- Some people feed off negativity or the opportunity to spread it: it’s as natural to them as breathing and they love to spew it
But before you kick them to the curb, consider this:
- None of us are perfect: we all have room for improvement
- We often don’t see ourselves the way others do in our interactions
- God gave each of us the power to change the atmosphere
- Prayer is our most effective tool in ANY situation: direct your focus to praying for the person while asking God to reveal your shortcomings as well
As the old folks used to say, “everything comes out in the wash”. I have found that if you give people enough time, they will reveal who they truly are. When you operate in the true essence of who you are, it will offend some and that is okay. We are not responsible for another’s insecurities, bitterness, envy or ill will, simply because we are walking in our God given purpose and gifts.
Think about: how horrible it must be to allow insecurities to have you bound, even if it’s only in one area, to the extent that you exhibit the type of personality that produces abrasive and insensitive behavior. These are often the ones that talk about being “betrayed” or “having no friends”, but are clueless when it comes to the part they play in that.
Don’t waste energy and time in what verbal response to give or cold demeanor to display. (After all, I believe they have that covered.) Pray and ask God to highlight areas in your life where you might be committing the same offense (or worse); God forbid!
Alesha Brown, The Joy Guru
Publisher|Best Selling Author|Transformational Speaker
CEO, Alesha Brown LLC
