It happens.  A person chews us out for what seems like nothing and we either raise our voice in return on walk away and not speak.  A coworker has not been on speaking terms for months.  We try to conduct business but cannot because there is no response from that person at all.  This makes us either want to run to the boss or other coworkers to force communication.  A person is smothering.  We cannot be anywhere without that person always being there and all around us.  We either confront and hurt that person or give them the silent treatment. 

Jesus understands the heart.  As we become more into the likeness of Christ He helps us to develop a better understanding of what may be in a person’s hearts rather than their actions.

If we could see into the hearts of all the people who hurt or irritate us it would open up an understanding and compassion for people. 

The person who is always quick to explode in anger could live in a home where a family member makes him feel he doesn’t matter.  Even his biggest accomplishments are laughed at by a dad or older brother.  The coworker who doesn’t answer may be facing an abusive relationship where somehow we are a reminder of that abuse.  A smothering person is possibly having a hard time dealing with a rejection making them afraid they will lose our friendship too. 

Prayer is the first step toward resolving these conflicts with people.  An effective prayer is one where we ask God to give us a better understanding of what these people are going through.  To be more like Christ is to seek to understand the hearts of others and to share their frustrations and hurts.  Only then will it be easier to not take their actions personally.  An angry person is a hurting person.  An arrogant non speaking person is one who is afraid or uncertain.  A demanding and clinging person is one who is damaged emotionally.  A quick retort to any of these people could very well damage our avenue to reach them for Christ.

Psalm 19:14

May my spoken words and unspoken thoughts be pleasing even to You, O Lord my Rock and my Redeemer.