Stepping Stones: Idiots or “Sons of Thunder”

Transformational Tip
I’m always so quick to judge others. Anyone who is outspoken, has a controversial point of view…or an opinion that is markedly different from mine…I think or say under my breath; “Idiot”. I’m not proud of this terrible behavior and have been working hard on taking that word out of my vocabulary. I read something about Jesus’ disciples, James and John, that was very helpful in changing this behavior. These were the guys who tried to talk Jesus into giving them the esteemed seats to the immediate right and left of His throne in Heaven. They were the two guys who wanted Jesus to call down fire from heaven and destroy a village that wouldn’t give them a place to sleep. Their buddies called them Idiots…Jesus called them “Sons of Thunder.” Jesus saw who they really were. They looked like crazy fisherman out of work…they were actually “Sons of Thunder.” God has uniquely and incredibly created all of us with gifts, passions, and personalities to be different on purpose. Others don’t always wisely utilize God’s design…but neither do you. Maybe part of your design and purpose is to help them grow, and by judging them…calling them an idiot…you are being the idiot.

Today, as you encounter people that may annoy you…see them as they really are. Look beyond the behavior and see the person God has created. Think of how you can be God’s instrument and serve them for their growth. Click here to share with the Stepping Stones community your thoughts, Idiots vs. Sons of Thunder.

Prayer
O Father God, I come to You my Lord with a humble and thankful heart. I confess Father that I am too judgmental of others…too intolerant to opinions that are different than mine. I thank You, Lord, for Your Word that once again provides wisdom and guidance to improve my thinking and behavior, and ultimately, transform my heart. Help me see all people as You have made them. Help me see the potential “thunder” in those with an outspoken point of view. I pray in the name of the one whose ultimate humility empowers me, Jesus Christ; and all God’s children said - AMEN!

The Truth
James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He (Jesus) gave the name Boanerges, that is, “Sons of Thunder”
Mark 3:17
And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. And Jesus called them to him and said to them, "You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Mark 10:35a,37,41-45