Ephesians 5:1-2 Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Have you ever thought, "Why do I have to be nice to these people?"  "These people" could be anybody, co-workers, bosses, other drivers and even fellow church members.  In any one instant you may feel ready to just give them a full piece of your mind and the piece you would share is not pretty at all.  Well, at least, I've had that thought.  Fortunately, I usually manage to keep myself under control.  I have thought long and hard about why I need to spare others from what I would like to say or do.

If I'm to be an imitator of God, I need to remember that God loves me at all times and that there is something to love in those moments even when I can't see it.  If my focus is on God and his love, the things set before me that may take me off course do not distract me.  Also, those moments might lead to something better for me, if only I can get through them in a way that pleases God and keeps me on the path.

Just yesterday, something occurred that seriously annoyed me.  After expressing my point-of-view to the person involved, in a very diplomatic and pleasant tone, I vented to a friend.  I then had to let that go and move on with my plan of action.  Ultimately, how I am going to get what it is I want and what God wants for me has to be my focus.  I am not going to let these small things become big stumbling blocks or setbacks.  I've taken an assessment of the situation and my options and am moving forward.  When I focus on the incident, I'm annoyed.  When I focus on my plan, I'm positive, upbeat, hopeful and know that all is well.  I'm working on copying God more and find the love in every situation.  This one may bring me to even higher heights than I imagined at the beginning.