It has been wisely said, “To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart.” Hi, I’m Tom Ellsworth from Sherwood Oaks Christian Church with a minute message.
Unfortunately, we often reverse those two relational principles. Frequently we attack others with our critical attitudes and unfair judgments. Somehow we’ve reasoned that if we can out think, outwit, and out maneuver the other person we will succeed. That philosophy may work on the battlefield or in setting a mouse trap, but it won’t work in building relationships on a daily basis. Use your heart when working with others. Proverbs 11:17 states, “Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you.”
On the other hand, when it comes to ourselves, we tend to be rather gracious. We’re tempted to be sensitive and subjective when it comes to judging our own character. Why is it that we always give ourselves the benefit of the doubt? Use your brain not your emotions in self-examination. Take an honest look inside; don’t sugarcoat what you see. Life is much better when you use your head and heart properly. If you want to build lasting relationships, be honest with yourself and compassionate with others.