Bruised Egos & Fire-Breathing

I recently heard a comedian say, “I carry a gun for when I get my feelings hurt.”

My first reaction – giggle.

My second reaction – think about the sad truth of his joke…

Our bruised egos inspire terrible overreactions of spite.

Jesus was rejected at a particular village because He didn’t intend to stay there very long. Disciples James and John picked up the offense for Jesus and were inspired to unleash some fiery judgment…

“Lord, should we call down fire from heaven and burn them up?” (Luke 9.54)

Uh, talk about overreaction! Jesus rebuked James and John…

“You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” (Luke 9.55, 56 NKJV)

Grace saves – not destroys.

Grace breathes forgiveness – not fire.

Grace changes everything.