There are sighs…and then there are SIGHS

 The dictionary definition of “sigh” is a long, deep, audible exhalation expressing sadness, relief, tiredness, or a similar feeling.

 I admit that I often sigh. Most often it’s a sign of relief and tiredness – I’ve worked through a physically painful or mentally challenging situation or circumstance, and I’m relieved (and a little exhausted) that it’s over.

 That appears to be a normal response for a lot of us.

 However…when I’m with other people and someone says or does something (for the umpteenth time) that I have “judged” as wrong or unacceptable or “not-up-to-my-standards,” my sigh can be accompanied by a slight look of disgust, slight turn of my head and a definite roll of my eyes.

 Can you relate?

 With those whom we spend a lot of time together, just the slightest look or sigh can trigger emotions of being  judged again…and again. 

 It’s not pleasant, is it?    

 When Jesus’ half-brother, James writes “Don’t grumble against each other” (James 5: 9), the original Greek word that is translated “grumble” literally means a deep sigh or groan of complaint or grief.

 The Mirror translation finishes that verse with “while the Lord is left standing outside behind closed doors. Let him be the judge of your situation.”

 I take that to mean that rather than judging that someone is wrong or unacceptable or “not-up-to-my-standards,” I can realize that Jesus is the only one who knows what’s going on and know that whatever it is, He’s continually working it out for the good of everyone involved.

 When I turn that over to Him, then I don’t let something bother me and I don’t get exasperated, and I don’t hurt other people around me.  I’m a lot happier too!

 Reminds me of Romans 12:18  “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

 We can’t control other people’s actions and attitudes, but we can  give it to Christ in us and let Him live as us with other people. That’s a win, win, win situation!  ~Paul Gray

 PS  Don’t beat yourself up when you forget to do that! His mercies endure forever, His love never fails, there’s no condemnation from Him, and He’s already taken away all sin and doesn’t hold it against you!  That’s Good News!!!

PSS When others “sigh” at you, you don’t have to take that “offense.” Just give it to Jesus and then live peaceably with all!