1195)  At the school I teach, we have a role model award at the end of each year for the students who stand out positively for what they say and do. I remember one year; I was sitting by a student whose behavior was over-the-top difficult to deal with. He leaned over to me and whispered, “Do you think I’ll get a role model award?” The only thought that hit my brain after hearing him was, Role Model for what?

This reminded me we are all role models. Everything we say, do, react to, and more is a model of the values we hold.

Jesus spoke about the role model we are in dealing with difficult people and even those we may deem an enemy.

Trash-talking about our enemies or those who think differently rarely results in good things. The book of Matthew says this is not okay. We are to love and pray for our enemies and even for those who just plain irritate us.

Being hateful and catty justifies many of their behaviors. Instead, battle these difficult relationships with love and prayer. It’s what God requires, and it will set a better example for those around us.

We are all role models. What are we modeling?  Matthew 5:44