Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. (Prov. 4:23)
SEVEN-YEAR-OLD CAMERON thought it would be funny to publicly tease a boy who had brought an unusual toy for show-and-tell. The boy’s feelings were hurt, and he began to cry—drawing the attention of the supervising adults. When Cameron saw those tears, something in his conscience was stirred, and he realized that what he had done was wrong.
Cameron’s mom had her son write a letter of apology to the boy he teased. Her initial embarrassment, however, was replaced by pride in her son when he decided to start an anti-bullying club at his school. Not only was he sorry for his actions, but he wanted to encourage classmates to avoid teasing others just for the sake of a laugh.
Thank God this little boy learned his lesson early. Some bullies never let go of their soul-crushing tactics. Bullies on the playground often grow up to be bullies in the corner office.
Solomon made it clear that we are to avoid people such as these—if we don’t end up becoming their slaves, we may become just like them, seduced by the power that only seems to accumulate and corrupt.
Keep your eyes on the straight path. Don’t be lured by the power of adult bullies, even if they want you to become a part of their entourage. Save your vulnerability for those who love the Lord—who would never exploit you or anyone else.
Ask God to create within you a heart of compassion.
Doug Schmidt is a freelance writer and editor; he is also on staff with his church as the small-groups director.
