By Benny Tutor
THE OPERATIVE lesson I've learned from our midweek study group is "don't react, respond." To react is to act on a trigger--whether person, situation or circumstance--based on impulse, instinct or raw emotion. To respond is to exercise one's choice in dealing with the same trigger, especially when the person, situation or circumstance is unfavorable, unreasonable or unfair. The shorthand for the response process is P-R-A-Y: Pause, Resist first impulse, Ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and Yield to the will of God. An illustrative example was given in the life of Isaac, Abraham's son, who was driven from well to well in parched land by pagan enemies and despite his formidable wealth and power, chose to respond meekly, foregoing claims of rights in favor of peaceful coexistence. Is wimpiness the right way to go then? I am sure that if prodded by a PRAY-ed for decision, Isaac would have stood for his rights or staked his claims. That a strong man would instead choose meekness--derived from the Greek word "praus" or "tamed strength"--in a very incendiary situation shows just how unshakable that strength is. In the end, even Isaac's enemies acknowledged his victory and God's hand in his life. According to my handbook, the lessons I need to apply on a daily basis are: (1) respond in meekness when people envy you; and (2) respond in meekness when people are unfair. This twin command is a tall order and indeed challenges me to respond, not on my strength but on His. Have a nice, responsive day!
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