The Me Card Game

…Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.

James 1:19b-20

Scenario: someone says something unjust and untrue about me. How do I respond? I usually play The Me Card Game in some form or fashion.

“Poor me” card – tell everyone who will listen that nobody likes me. Stir up as much strife as possible. Result: people may tire of my drama and move on.

“Not me” card – The other person’s comment was totally unfounded. I’m not going to waste any of my energy worrying about it. I’ll give it to God. Result: Rumor dies down, God’s grace abounds.

“Maybe me” card – I pray and ask God if anything I did even remotely resembles the accusation. Result: precious personal time with God, rest from the ugliness of the situation.

“Wait and see” me card – I just sit back and watch what unfolds. I use patience at all costs. I pray that God will help me to wait on Him to move. Result: the situation will either come to a head on its own or die down without fanfare.

“Why me” card – I can try to figure out why in the world someone would say that about me. Result: could be negative or positive. If I wallow around in self-pity, this card could lead to bitterness and depression. If I play it in a heartfelt serious manner, it could lead me to a whole new level of joy and understanding.

I may choose a combination of me cards to play, but I must choose wisely because whichever card I play, I have to live out the consequences.

How did I come up with this game? Experience. At one time or another I have played each one of these cards and dealt with the aftermath. Thank goodness I am not playing this game alone. Good choices or bad, God is right there with me.

God, thank you for desiring the best for us. Your steadfast love is amazing.

Susan P.