Do not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God-what is good and is pleasing to him and is perfect (Romans 12:2 GNB).
Often times you find people who allow their good character to be corrupted or negatively influenced by the bad behaviour or ill-treatment they receive from others. For instance, someone could decide to stop greeting a neighbour or a colleague, because each time he greets that neighbour or colleague, he or she doesn’t answer. To make such a decision would mean that you’re allowing someone’s bad behaviour change your good character. Never allow that to happen to you.
That a friend or an acquaintance took undue advantage of your good behaviour is no justification for you to change for the worse. Maintain your good character. Keep on being the nice, loving and caring one; it will pay off. The question to ask before making a decision to change your good behaviour should be: “Was it right for me to do what I did?” If it was right, then you shouldn’t change it because someone else doesn’t like it.
Don’t be moved by the negative actions, comments or ill-treatment from others. Rather, respond in love to those who hurt or despitefully use you. If you act this way, you’ll be protecting your own spirit and at the same time promoting love, harmony, and unity. Make the quality choice not to allow someone’s bad behaviour change your good character.
