About halfway trough this 30 day fast from talking about anyone not in the room, I’ve noticed several things. First, as expected, a heightened awareness of just how much we talk about people. And with that, I have recognized how often I react to people with judgment. So much more than I want to admit.

But with this awareness came a revlelatory practice as a cleanser for the inside of my cup (Matthew 23:26). Whenever I feel the urge to talk about someone in any manner within even a thousand miles of negativity, or whenever I start to judge someone in my heart, I immediately pray a blessing over them and their day. I don’t fret over praying elegantly or with profundity, I just shoot up a simple prayer as quickly as I can from the moment the judgement surfaces.

“Lord, I pray a blessing over that guy in the red car.”

“God, please draw her closer to you today and bless her.”

BOOM.

Oh what this does for your heart! By refusing to verbalize (and therefore strengthen) any of the negativity, and counteracting it with a blessing, the heart begins to change toward that person. Toward all people. Your reactions become loving responses in more and more situations.

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for showing me this wonderful practice of peace toward others, for You, and for the molding of me into Your likeness.

Blessed, and sometimes painful, theosis!