For it is not an enemy who taunts me—then I could bear it; it is not an adversary who deals insolently with me—then I could hide from him. But it is you, a man, my equal, my companion, my familiar friend. We used to take sweet counsel together; within God’s house we walked in the throng.
Psalm 55:12-14
Lord, I need thick skin today. You have given me so many people who love me and pour their lives into me. They have walked with me through some of the toughest circumstances in my life. They have been that companion, that familiar friend, who has placed me first so many times. Indeed, I am better because of them. Yet, there is within me this tendency to take an infraction on their part, times when they may cross the line and offend me – regardless of the size – and view their behavior as betrayal. Immediately their status changes with me equating that they are not for me. I’m not saying that I make them enemies. But I do look at them some kind of way. Lord, give me a heart that is quick to forgive and eager to pardon. Continue to remind me of the blatant ways in which I have violated my friendship with You, betraying You, and behaving in a way that looks like my life wasn’t even changed by You. Remind me of the grace You have given me, wiping from my account all of the foul ways in which I have not only disregarded Your love, but even those whom now I look to write off. Lore, continue to compel me to respond to others as You have responded to me – with grace and mercy. Let restoration always be at the forefront of my mind. Continue to remind me that but by Your grace there goes I. Thank You for giving to me that which I can freely give back to others. Be glorified! Amen!