"As well as they are able to."

Those 7 words were Cinderella's response when asked how she was being treated at home. It was obvious she was very selective about her words and it brought 2, actually 3 things to mind:


A lot of times as Mrs Pastor, it's easy to feel "mistreated" for various reasons including a subtle feeling of entitlement. I know very few Mrs Pastors will acknowledge that they have any feeling of entitlement but when you listen to some (as I have) you'll hear beyond the words being spoken. In fact I've met and heard some Mrs Pastors who are rather vocal about what they feel they are entitled to.



The first thing is that everyone chooses how they treat others - whether deliberately or not. Conversely, we choose how to respond to people to treat us "as well as they are able to."

If or even when you feel that someone/people are not treating you as you think you deserve, rise above it - be kind to them. Never forget the Golden Rule: Treat others as you want to be treated.* It's not enough to preach it...live it.

The 2nd thing that came to mind was that our words should, actually must always be kind - no matter how difficult.

Remember one of my favourite verses Proverbs 31:26 - When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly.** I'm not saying that we shouldn't say things as they are - we should just lace it with kindness.


One other lesson was that we don't need many words to make indelible impact in people's lives. Ella, spitefully renamed "Cinderella," held on to what her mother and father told and taught her about being courageous and kind.

Proverbs 19:22a says: What is desirable in a man is his kindness. (NASB)

There were so many other lessons about how to respond to people who "mistreat" you from this movie. I recommend that you watch it and kindly share any other tips you glean from it.
One caution: We Christians believe in Miracles not magic...

 

References:

* Luke 6:31; Matt 7:12

** Message Version, emphasis mine