Transformed – teen devotion – February 16, 2020
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:29-32
So it didn’t work out
Do you like to “share time” with your significant other? Don’t get too enamored with one person. They may hurt you, but Jesus never will! #sharingtime #noheartache #keepitonmute
I use a unique phrase when I see people of the opposite sex hanging out in a social setting. When I see one of them on their own, I ask, “Are the two of you sharing time?” They have a quizzical look on their face as to what I mean. “You know dating, going out, going steady.” I prefer the thought of “sharing time,” because it seems a lot less exclusive and possessive. And if you are not exclusive or possessive, then there are no break ups because you are only “sharing time.”
Part of the fun of being young and dating is learning about yourself and other people. As you do this in the dating world, you may come to the realization quickly that you have very little in common with the other person; certain things drive you up the wall. Or, the person you may be infatuated with may not have the same feelings toward you. That is okay … because you are just “sharing time.”
Sometimes it hurts your feelings. The natural reaction is to lash out, spread false rumors, try to sully their reputation. But Paul teaches to forgive the hurt that you feel. Don’t tear others down but keep silent.
The Bible tells us that you are not your own; you were bought with the price of Jesus’ blood. As God’s chosen people, when your heart gets broken (and that may happen several times), do not lash out. See it as a learning experience … remember, you were just “sharing time.” Dating is the time to learn who we are and what is important to seek from a companion in this life.
Relax, my young friends! Take this whole dating thing slow. Don’t give your heart away to just anyone or everyone; give it to Jesus and trust him. It didn’t work out with that boy or girl? No big deal … it was just sharing time! Keep sharing time with your best friend, Jesus!
Prayer: Dear God, you wire us in unique ways to appreciate others and their companionship in our lives. Help us to be thankful for the opportunities to learn and grow in appreciation for the way you made us. When things don’t work out like we plan, help us chalk it up to experience and move on in a loving and forgiving spirit toward those who may hurt us. We will keep our eyes on you because you never hurt us. Amen.
