What a Pest

People, like pesky insects, can be annoying, some unknowingly, others intentionally. Our Creator didn’t design us this way; our fleshly nature did that. If God allows the same bothersome people to cross your path, there’s a purpose. They may be in desperate need of someone who cares. Pray for them, be patient, listen, and show kindness. Those irritating people may even help you realize you, too, have been an annoyance at times. That type of behavior doesn’t draw others to God’s love and Jesus’ saving grace.

We are accountable to God for our conduct—avoiding frustrating people or taking part in conversations with intentions to annoy, hurt, or falsely accuse is unacceptable. One day, unless forgiven by God, we will answer to our Maker for every meaningless, hurtful, and harmful word spoken, regardless of our reasons. Jesus said, “But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment” (Matthew 12:36).