People Watcher

by Kay Heitsch

I'm a people watcher. I think it's interesting to watch people and observe how they react to life's situations.

I know people who think that they should be spared of problems. After all, they pray..don't they! Shouldn't God be like Santa and give them what they ask for. We forget this Bible text at times, "Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But be of good cheer, because I have overcome the world." John 16:33 We all have trials and sorrows in this world. Even people who pray! We can keep a good attitude (be of good cheer) and grow stronger in spite of our problems.

When we ask God to change a person shouldn't He just change them? When God doesn't do what we think He should we may get angry at God. I've found that sometimes God wants me to change, not the other person. Boy, that's an eye opener!

Somehow, at times we forget that God gives each of us free will. He won't force anyone to do anything, even if we pray that He will. One thing we do know is that with our choices comes consequences. We will reap what we sow. (see Galatians 6:7).

People watching is fascinating. At times what you see in another person is exactly what you do yourself. One thing that's encouraging, is that if it's something you don't like, you can ask God to help you change! Even that prayer usually takes time!

I've learned a lot being a people watcher. Watching people has shown me that we are all unique. We can learn from each other and be of good cheer (keep a good attitude) because Jesus has overcome the world.