Fools show their annoyance at once. Prov. 12:16
A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense. Prov. 19:11
Lord Jesus, it’s a good thing there’s no condemnation remaining for our sins, because these Scriptures surely convict me. As I own my penchant for getting “bugged.” I’m thankful you’re the consummate “Overlooker.” It’s not that you don’t take our stuff seriously. But as our Savior and righteousness, you are so forbearing, forgiving, and patient with us. Thank you.
This side of glorification, I don’t expect to be annoyance-free; but the gospel is certainly powerful enough for me to get less irritated more often. Things like this aren’t “bug-worthy” enough to rob me of joy and put me in a bad attitude: Road construction and loud talkers, long check-out lines and ungrateful people, slow wi-fi and high humidity; people driving too slowly in the left lane, and expectations of a tip for a take-out order.
But at a different level, Jesus, give me grace and wisdom to know what to take seriously and what to overlook. Give me big-heartedness and thick-skin-ness. I don’t want to keep a record of annoying things done around me or to me. I don’t want to hold onto slights, barbs, or hurtful comments. No good can come from that. It’s just crickets making noise.
In fact, Jesus, help me be more aware of when I’m the one being annoying or irritating to others. Convict me when my sense of humor, disregard for boundaries, or lack of manners lead to someone’s discomfort or annoyance. Help me be grace-full with my words, body-language, and respect. Help me give others fewer reasons to need this prayer. So very Amen I pray, in your loving and kind name.
