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“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.”  James 3:17 (ESV)

Baby it’s cold outside!  Don’t even like the sound of those words.  While I totally get it that we have to endure the harsh, frigid temps – this season called Winter – I’d much rather be chilling at the beach. Sunshine, sand and ocean waves are my definite go to happy place.  And while Virginia isn’t the coldest state, I’m definitely a fan of flying south for the Winter.

So what’s a beach girl gonna do when the temps keep dropping?  She layers bulky sweaters and thick scarfs.  She sips on hot chocolate smothered in whipped cream and drizzled with caramel.  She claims her territory right in front of the flickering fireplace and stirs  a pot of soup.  Even in the midst of the chill, we can find some warmth.

Ever find yourself facing a little cold inside?  We’ve probably all been there – you know the silence that wounds our souls.  Questions covered up rather than revealed.  Warmth melting into frozen. Too many heated voices filling the air leaving a chill deep inside. Harsh looks that send others fleeing.  Definitely not our happy place. Not so easy to find peace in the midst of the chill.

Wonder what would happen if instead of resisting cold, we pressed in? We’d stay and layer kindness, humility and mercy.  We’d pursue real conversation uncovering any wrongs. We’d chose to be the warmth of Jesus melting away the harshest spirit. We’d whisper, “I love you” ever so sweetly.  And we’d guard our gaze, words and actions to draw others closer to Him.

Don’t know about you but I can feel the Son’s rays breaking through. Streams of light hovering over dark. Nothing shines brighter or more clearer than the beauty of those who chose relationship rather than exit. When we free ourselves from even the slightest flicker of  anger, revenge and bitterness, we invite healing to begin.

Baby it’s cold outside but we don’t have to be the cold inside our homes. Let’s be agents of change and pursue peace (Romans 12:18)  in 2018 even if we are the only one reflecting His love and grace.

“Father, only Your spirit living and breathing in us can transform cold into warmth in the midst of the darkest winters of our souls.  How we desire Your peace to overflow all of our relationships.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life