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I waited patiently for the space in an unusually crowded supermarket parking lot.

My day had been packed with obligations and deadlines. I was tired and reluctant to make this quick stop for something I needed for dinner. The driver finally backed out. Suddenly, from the other direction, a woman darted into the vacant space.

My first instinct was to honk my horn. My second was to wait until she got out of the car and give her a piece of my mind. After considering both, I reluctantly drove away. Maybe, like me, she had a lot on her mind and just didn't see me, I rationalized. It was some time before I reconciled my feelings with those thoughts.

I once read, “Make a pulpit of every circumstance.” But how? Doing so is difficult when we rely on ourselves. Our human reaction often sends a poor message. But the Bible says we can be conformed to the image of God's Son if we let Him transform us into a new person by changing the way we think.

Living at peace with others is a choice. I’m grateful my thoughts overruled my feelings that day. What would it have accomplished to be confrontational about a parking space? Outbursts of anger aren’t the kind of righteous behavior God desires.

With each act of graciousness and patience toward others, we learn more of God’s will, which pleases Him. Our lives will bring glory to God and have a positive influence on the world around us. We can show them. We don't need a pulpit, a platform, or a microphone to tell others about God.

When you encounter a situation that leaves you frustrated, remind yourself that you are an expression of God to the world. Ask Him to help you reflect His love, and then step up to the pulpit.

(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)

(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)