Read Romans 12:19-21 and Proverbs 25:21, 22

Have you ever had a bad day when nothing seems to be going the way you expected? You went to work only to find out you were demoted and all the time you thought you were doing a great job. On the way home someone cuts you off on the freeway, then gives you a little sign as if to say, “you were in the wrong”…of all the nerve! After leaving the freeway you then proceed to get in line at the drive-thru window at a fast food restaurant. The two cars in front of you take twenty minutes to order and get their food. Finally it’s your turn to place your order. You tell the person at the window exactly what you want, go home with your order expecting it to be correct. But to your surprise nothing was, in fact you had someone else’s order.  On finding this out, in anger you accidentally knock over the pop and get yourself all wet and sticky with red soda. Ever have one of those days? We all have and some more than others. It’s in times like these we need an encouraging word or a pat on the back, letting us know we’re not alone. 

Everyday, somewhere, someone is having a bad day. Someone is going through a trial where there seems to be one burden on top of another taking place. Nothing seems to be going right, even their attitude begins to change and they snap at anything. Frustration takes control and their use of kind words to others turn into harsh. Ever have days like that? Have you ever seen someone’s attitude changed in an instant when something minute happens?  I wonder why? 
How do we love those who are having a bad day? How would you want others to react to you when everything seems to be going wrong? God’s word says, “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21) When a person snaps and reacts in a negative way because of uncontrolled circumstances in their life, it is then they need a kind word, hug or smile from a friend or family member. Show God’s love by not reacting to them in an unkind way, but overcome evil with good. Sometimes this may mean, just walk away and don’t react to their unkind words by adding fuel to the fire. You never know what a day may bring you, and you never know just how you may react…so always strive to be kind. 
Dear Heavenly Father, use me to show your love when others are having a bad day. Help me to react in a kind way. Let not a word of bitterness, leave my lips, but that which will edify and comfort. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Copyright2002 Dawn K. Smith