YELLOW CARD

Have you ever noticed that in certain sports (namely soccer), there is a yellow card given to players who violate certain rules or who have been inconsiderate to the rest of the players on the field? This penalty is followed by a red card if the behavior continues and then the player is removed from the game and no substitute player is allowed to replace that removed player for a specified amount of game play.

When Brittany played soccer, I used to feel so bad for a player who was handed a yellow card, but if they eventually got a red card, I was thinking, "Wow they should have learned their lesson by now". Brittany's coach, John, did a great job of training the girls in their attitudes and conduct on and off the field so that our team never received any warning cards. He was strict with them and they knew not to do anything that would bring bad consequences to them or their teammates.

I was just thinking how our actions determine good or bad consequences, not only for ourselves but for our friends or group of people we work with, as well.

We have many chances each day to encourage or discourage others just by what we do or say. Those decisions can affect other's attitudes and lives, in addition to our own. This doesn't seem to matter to some people until the consequences bleed over into their comfort zone. In other words, they are good until the red card shows up and they have to make adjustments to their own plan.

Today, maybe it would be a good idea to pay attention to those little yellow card warnings that our conscience gives us. Listen to that small voice that is telling you to change your attitude. Take a minute to listen to your co-worker's dilemma. Stop what you're doing and look your child in the eye to really hear what they are telling you, or how about meeting your spouse at the front door with a hug and a smile at the end of the day? I can guarantee you that these actions won't get you a red card, they will most likely get you a smile, a thank you, or maybe even a hug. Those are really good consequences aren't they?

It's a good investment of your time and effort to train yourself to do what's right. It's not always easy or comfortable, but it is worth it in the long run.

Our minister shared this scripture at last night's service, and it has been weighing on my heart. If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. (James 3:13 NLT)

Go on and read the rest of chapter 3 and you will have a good grasp on what God expects of us, as Christians. He has a standard on how we are to treat others. We need to get rid of our selfish way of doing things and look out for the team as we walk with Him. Practicing this new way of viewing my responsibility to others is my challenge for myself this week. I sure hope it becomes my new habit.

Have a great week!