This is the type of person who steps on toes, and doesn’t practice empathy, but will also react harshly if challenged for their brisk attitude and demeanor.
So, knowing the kind of reaction that would be leveled at you, you keep your retorts to yourself. It wouldn’t be worth the barrage of further toe-stomping or insults that would probably come your way.
So instead, imaginary long conversations with that person take place in your head about how they should change and what they could do to make things right. A great deal of mental energy is spent fussing and fuming about the other person’s attitude and demeanor, and what could be done to set the person straight. Better an internal conversation than an actual conversation that would stir more anger.
It can be difficult to withhold a sarcastic or caustic response to someone who torques us. There may be a desire to stomp on their toes as much as they have stomped on ours.
But as followers of Jesus Christ, many will often bite their tongue instead of provoking more confrontation. This is because Jesus reminds us we are to live by a different ethic, one marked by forgiveness and reconciliation. In Christ, we are called to a new way of living. And more than that, we are empowered to live out this new ethic by God’s Holy Spirit. Jesus calls us to forgive those who wrong us, to not respond with evil intent.
The Apostle Paul tells us, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all.”
The Letter of James gives a wonderful reminder: “You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; for your anger does not produce God’s righteousness.
Therefore, rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness, and welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves.”
Yes, dear reader, as followers of Jesus we are to present the gospel of grace and forgiveness, even when it is hardest to do. So do your part to stop the cycle of nastiness, ugliness, and hatred that is permeating our society. Live the gospel of Jesus Christ and bring honor to our Lord.
