Thursday, January 04, 2007

But.......


But.

A small word.

Maybe a funny word, if taken out of context.

Most definitely a powerful word.



"That shirt looks great on you, but...."

"Great work today, but..."

"I love you, but...."

Have you ever received a 'but' compliment? I received one just this morning and while I appreciate the effort and know that the person paying the compliment meant well, the 'but' ruined it. To me it felt more like something mean wrapped up in something quasi nice just to make it ok to say the mean.

As Christians we behave like a 'but' (not a butt, although I am sure there are Christians who behave like the latter as well) far too often. I forgive you, but..... I accept you, but..... You are welcome, but.....

Are we really representing Christ's love if our actions come with a 'but'? It is my prayer that I may be generous with my compliments and stingy with my 'buts'.

We loved because he first loved us.
1 John 4:19

Your thoughts?

12 comments:

Kristi said...

Such a simple blog with a profound message. Thanks for the food for thought!

Meagan said...

Hi Kristi!

Thanks for stopping by!

Meg

Juliet Amaka King said...

More damaging is when we see ourselves with 'buts'...
Like, "I know God loves me, but not enough to accept me because of such-and-such I've done.
He accepts us no matter what, because He first loved us as you so aptly remind us Meg.

Becky said...

Once again, Sweet Pea, you use the simple to explain the profound. Well written, as always.

Christopher Green said...

Well written. But...then you always are well written.

Christine said...

Meagan, I have been reading your last several posts and can completely relate to your feelings about your son's 1st bday. Our daughter was born at 25 weeks and was in the NICU for 2 1/2 months. She caught up developmentally by 2 and is now 4, and the spunkiest thing you'd ever hope to see! It's great to read of your faith and the generosity of others during the scary time of having a baby in the hospital. I hope he has (had?) a wonderful birthday!

Wendy said...

Very true!

Enjoyed reading some of your blog today.

Meagan said...

Juliet Paul-

Well said and great point! Thanks for sharing.

Meg

Meagan said...

Thanks mama, I learned from the best!

Meagan said...

Thanks CG, you are too kind. Thanks for stopping by...alway a pleasure.

Meg

Meagan said...

Christine -

My mom was just telling me about your blog the other day...I am headed there now! Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing.

Meg

Meagan said...

Thanks Wendy - hope you stop by again!

Meg