If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying under its burden, and you would refrain from helping it, you shall surely help him with it.
Exodus 23:5
Less than thirty words in a list of requirements for the covenant with God that emphasize that our covenant with Jesus includes others. It underscores that my treatment of others is not based on my current relational issues but on the covenant I have with God. It is supposed to be my witness to what kind of God we are related to. This verse about “donkey etiquette” forces me to evaluate how I choose my behavior to others.
Am I led by my emotions or by the righteousness of God in my daily interactions with others? In very practical example I come upon someone who I know has deep emotional issues with me. I know they hate me. But I am still supposed to help them, even against my own inclination. I don’t FEEL like helping them. As a matter of fact I FEEL like not helping them! But God’s word commands me to jump in and help that very person.
The application of this model reverberates with practicality in my daily approach to others. If I am supposed to treat those who hate with kindness because of my relationship with Jesus and the covenant, He has provided to remove my sins. How should I treat those who love me when we are struggling with me relationally? When my wife and I are in conflict, can I respond to her anyway I want? Is my treatment of her based on our current conditions or on the New Covenant Jesus has provided? What about my kids, my staff, or those who attend my church?
A lot of bad behavior is excused by calling it honesty. But Proverbs 29:11 tells us that a fool gives full vent to their wrath. The fool releases pure emotion without tempering it with reason or righteousness. This is not THE truth it is their truth. Over time they become reflexive, waiting to be triggered by the next agitating stimulus. We need to be righteous and reasonable, especially when our emotions are running high. We must be careful not to hide behind the facade of “being real”.
The Truth Shall Set Us Free,
Pastor Jason
This is a great exhortation Babe! I loved it...and the title rocks!
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