(John 13:13-15)
There is one thing that really stands out in regards to how Jesus dealt with people. It is the fact that He loved people. He was a hundred percent people person.
But what about the time Jesus drove the money changers out of the temple? (Luke 19:45-48) or the time He spoke to the religious leaders, and gave them the six woes? In those instances, you might say, Jesus did not have a high regard for people. But the Gospels definitely reveal another side to Jesus in His dealings with people.
Just because you have to make corrections, in people's attitudes and actions, does not mean that you don't have their best interests at heart. There are times when love must be tough. Times when it doesn't seem like love, but yet love is there.
Depending on the people and the situations, there are times when one must deal with people softly, and firmly. One must discern what approach would be best. When you read the Gospels, and observe Jesus' interaction with people, you see that He chose the right approach every time. How can we choose the right approach in dealing with people?
Peter wrote to his readers, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen" (2 Peter 3:18) Both of these things that Peter wants his readers (and us) to grow in, apply to how we are to approach people as well.
We are to show grace to people. We are to love them as the Lord loves them. We are to acquire a knowledge of them (get to know them well, so we can be a blessing to them in their lives)
Yes, we are to be Jesus, to people, so they can see Him shinning through us. What a difference our relationships would be, if we would practice this in our lives. GP
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