Amazing Things!

Turtle Man. That’s what Amos and Lydia call him. He is not a Ninja, but he is well-known in many circles. Amos has long-admired his ability to capture unwanted creatures with his bare hands—snakes, skunks, raccoons—nearly any creature you might imagine. His wild demeanor, toothless smile, and yelp of delight are cherished traits among his fans. Not long ago, the kids were getting ready for the program when a teaser came on giving a brief biographical sketch of Turtle Man, claiming that he had caught his first snapping turtle at the age of seven. Not to have her brother outdone, Lydia quickly responded in a proud, matter-of-fact voice, “Well, Amos caught his first snapping turtle when he was only five!” No doubt, Amos had captured many turtles by the time he was five, but a snapping turtle? Probably not. Lydia’s memory might have been influenced by the fact that she would have been only two or three at the time. But, when you’re proud of your brother, amazing things are possible.

Why do we struggle so to believe the best about our brother or sister in Christ? Why is it so much easier to believe—almost savor—one another’s blunders? Do the failings of others serve to reinforce our own sense of worth? Do the glaring inconsistencies of a brother or sister in Christ allow me to sweep my own sins under the rug?

Love is the “more excellent way” (1 Cor. 12:31). Love “believes all things” (1 Cor. 13:7). Believing the best about others is a choice. No, we are not to turn a blind eye to sin, but seek gentle restoration in the heart of the wanderer (Gal. 6:1). We “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15) and believe the best about people.

While some “bite and devour one another” (Gal. 5:15), we have been called to show “brotherly love [and] give preference to one another in honor” (Rom. 12:10). Honor means to give high value to some thing or someone. We are to honor one another in brotherly love. Too many fall away through lack of loving encouragement. Somehow, we must do a better job of conveying confidence in one another. Love believes the best. Heard often in the church should be the following sentiments: “You can do it! I believe in you and what God can do in your life—amazing things!”