Dying Trees

From J.E. Tada's More Precious than Silver

They say that when a tree begins to decay at its roots, the mischief is first seen at the extreme ends of little branches...you notice the new growth is dry and brittle. I can't help but think how much like little trees we are...we simply must aim to have a Christian walk that, like the sap of a tree, runs through every twig and leaf of our character.

As followers, we profess to be acting as our King would have us act. We often proudly state we are Christians, what with fish on the bumper of our car, or vinyl verses attached to the rear window...yet the choices we make sometimes (most times, from what I heard at college) ensure that our Lord is not real. We say something cross to a telemarketer, we snap at the bank teller who is in training, we honk the horn at the coffee stand as soon as the car ahead half has their order. We get poisoned by the world saying it is all about what we want. No. It is not.
We are now enslaved to the most loving, kind, wonderful Savior. What we do in the world should be what HE would do...which, unfortunately, does not include honking the horn at elderly in a crosswalk. (please understand the sarcasm there!). Our Lord treated everyone with respect---with the exception of the coin changers--including His betraying disciple. He was, however, also not opposed to showing, gently generally, where one was sinning. 
We need remember that every time we step out of the door of our home (indeed, in our home as well!) we are missionaries in our communities. At the workplace. Wherever you spend your day. Thus, I say we show respect and love to all. I have often been questioned about behavior of non believers, and I reply that I do not always approve of behavior, due to what the Bible has to say...but I will love the person. 
Remember...if you are struggling with your day, speak with your Father. I have found with many hard days that even a minute in prayer asking for help and strength and patience with a day or a person makes a difference in your day. Blessings.