Reflection

“As a face is reflected in water, so the heart reflects the real person.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭27‬:‭19‬ ‭NLT‬‬

I found this particular scripture, fascinating, and yet convicting in a way. When we look at ourselves in the reflection of water, do we see a person who reflects the love of Jesus or do we see a furrowed brow, a stern expression, perhaps even steam coming out of our head because we’re so angry.

Self examination is not a bad thing. But asking the Lord to search our heart and show us if there’s any way and things that we need to change is the best way to do self examination. Because it’s actually not on our own that we’re coming to conclusions, its our human nature. We can choose,instead, to be lead by the direction of the Holy Spirit. When we let Him lead us we are able to have more self control and peace.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬

So does your facial expression reflect the love of Jesus, especially at times when you have a conflicted view with another? Does your facial expression soften and reminding you of how much God loves you and knows that you’ll make mistakes? God knows everyone makes mistakes and with our free will can live a bumpy life. What do others see in your face?

When you look at your reflection in water or in a mirror, do you see forgiveness? If we can’t forgive others for being human, impulsive, insecure, and raging with anger, how can our Father in heaven forgive us?

Luke 11 tells us how the disciples wanted to know how to pray. Jesus shared the well known “Our Father” prayer. It is a powerful prayer for every day and moment, use it daily to reflect the importance of love and forgiveness.

“Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” Jesus said, “This is how you should pray: “Father, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. Give us each day the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation. ””
‭‭Luke‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭NLT‬‬

There’s so many scriptures that describe how God understands our feeling of anger, and yet he also wants us not to allow our anger to tumble into being a horrible example to others of unforgiveness, bitterness, and raging sin.

“And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭26‬-‭27‬ ‭NLT‬‬

We must not let the devil win, seeking God and His responses is the answer. I’m working on this Godly principle, also.

I’m growing in my knowledge of the need for conviction by the Holy Spirit. There’s a difference between being convicted by God to consider His responses over our responses especially when we are in conflict.

Condemnation comes from the devil and is meant to keep us in a guilt- shame cycle. However, conviction by the Holy Spirit gives us an opportunity to learn from the One who created us. We must love God and love others the way He wants us to love.

Sometimes in love, it means sharing our frustration with another, but it doesn’t mean we condemn them for their sin. It means we love the sinner and pray for them to realize how much God loves them and wants the best for them.

Father God, please help our faces reflect the love of Jesus to others. God let our hearts be in tuned to Yours, especially when we feel offended or in conflict with another. Father God help us to love others and the best way possible as you guide us. You are holy Lord! When we walk with you, we reflect your holiness. You are good and when we choose the best responses others see a reflection of You in us. Thank you for second chances and thank you, Lord for the grace and mercy of our Savior, In Jesus name, amen!

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“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NLT‬‬