As I was reading this American Thinker article today, regarding Kim Jong-un's bold level of rhetoric, as well as President Trump's bold level of rhetoric (see video), I thought about the fact that both of these leaders have tremendous egos and pride (ego is "an inflated feeling of pride, which produces a superiority over others" (see definition).Ego also provides an individual a sense of self-importance, which can lead to arrogance, which can lead to hate.
However, God has a way of humbling any individual or nation who displays the above characteristics of ego and pride (see article).
When the apostle Paul was teaching the Athenian philosophers about the one true God in Acts 17:16-34, notice that he did not pull an ego or pride trip on them, but demonstrated both humility and diplomacy (see #3), as well as kindness in his sermon on Mars' Hill.
As a result, Paul received positive feedback from some of the folks in his audience (Acts 17:32).
Beloved, instead of bombastic rhetoric, wouldn't a demonstration of humility and diplomacy go a whole lot farther, relative to our relationship and dealings with North Korea?
And one more important characteristic to demonstrate -- how about demonstrating a little kindness to boot? (Genesis 50, noting specifically vs's 15-21 describing Joseph's attitude of "kindness" toward his brothers). Also see articles here and here.
Who knows, perhaps a godly peace might be the result of our efforts.
---Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets
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