By Inside Out with Courtnaye

Have you ever dealt with difficult people in your life before? Did they make you just want to pull your hair out, scream, or cry? Think about that for a moment. I would imagine that you probably didn’t have to go that deep in thought. But let me ask you a couple of quick questions. Can you think of a few people in your life currently, that may be a little difficult to deal with right now? Do you feel like you’re being mistreated by someone?

If so, I’ve been there before, sis! I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but I’ve discovered that once you overcome one, here comes another. It’s like they are assigned to you! LOL!

Nevertheless, I know that God is at work here, and I’m sure He’s at work in you too (and He will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ). With that being said, I believe that one of the reasons God allows this continual process of being around difficult people, is so that we can truly learn how to “love” individuals the way Christ loves us.

When I began working on this post, I kept hearing the word, “love.” Now, some of you may be thinking, “What? That’s it. That’s all you’ve got Courtnaye?!” And I would answer a wholehearted, “Yes.” Romans 13:8 states, “Owe no man anything, but to love one another…” It may seem simple, but if you’ve ever overcome to some extent in this area, you’ll agree that loving a difficult person is anything but easy - especially when you’re met with opposition. But it's biblically right.

Now, before we go any further, let’s take the love test. This is a good way to tell if you’re around a difficult person. Here we go! Do you cringe when that individual comes around? Do you feel like you’re walking on eggshells with him or her? Does that person say negative things when you’re trying to be positive? Let me ask another question…please. Are you feeling mistreated right now?

If so, how are you handling it, sis? Have you lashed out, given him or her a piece of your mind, or have you responded improperly in some way? If you did, and if you haven’t asked the Lord for forgiveness already, take a moment to do so right now. Get free. Because God is calling you to love…no matter how difficult the individual or individuals may be. He’s actually making you more mature in your walk with Him and making you stronger in godly character.

Trust me. I know this is not easy. Remember, I’ve been there before countless times. But here’s the thing. Here’s the how-to-part.

The next time you encounter that person, do something different. In other words, when you come face-to-face with that individual try loving them in action, like a friendly greeting or a smile. Be cordial. Pray for him or her (and yourself in the process).

And guess what? This is not about being fake. Instead, it’s about being a Christian. It’s about going the extra mile. It’s about letting go and letting God. So be the woman that He has called you to be in this situation.

Also, choose to respond properly when insulted. Jesus said in Matthew 5:11-12, “People will insult you and hurt you. They will lie and say all kinds of evil things about you because you follow me. But when they do, you will be happy. Rejoice and be glad, because you have a great reward waiting for you in heaven.” Sis, heaven is coming! And we won’t have to deal with this there. Thank God!

However, as long as we’re here, we have to choose to keep loving difficult people and those who mistreat us.  Here’s an extra biblical nugget for the journey found in Romans 12:17-18, “Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.”

Lastly, if you get a free minute, watch this life-changing video from Allen Parr from The Beat. This short message is on “How to Respond When People Mistreat You.” Whew! Needed this one recently. Soooooo good! And I have to admit, I had to say "Ouch!" a few times! But this is where growth happens. 😉

Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!

~Courtnaye

QUESTION: Are you being mistreated right now? How have you been handling it? Need prayer? If so, you can email me directly @ insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.comand we can stand together in prayer.

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