RESPONDING VERSUS REACTING

Reacting is an impulsive (emotion led and contrary) course of action to something that has happened, is happening or you think will happen.  It is generally led by our emotions telling our brain what do to in our thoughts, words and actions (Ecclesiastes 7:9). It is a particular behavioral response to something.  Reacting is an instinctive and emotional response that generally is impulsive and often influenced by our past experiences or fears. On the other hand, responding is a thought out, thoughtful and deliberate approach to something and it includes assessing the situation, weighing the options, and making a conscious decision that lead our emotions (not visa  versa).

Reacting is often based on a past that is rooted in our flesh nature (and experience) rather than the new self that we are in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17).  It is reacting to something or a situation based on our old self.  When we embrace the new self (who we are in Jesus) in our thought life we can be intentional in our thoughts, words and action and therefore respond deliberately rather than react impulsively to something and/or a situation (Romans 6:11-15).  It allows us to be deliberate in who we are in Christ Jesus for our moment by moment living; for others in demonstration, assistance, and instructive living; and to show His glory in, through, and with our life.  Similar to the police, medical people and firefighters in our community, be a first responder for the Kingdom not a first (quick) reactor (impulsive reaction) in the brokenness of our humanity and the ways of this world.  Be disciplined and learn to make a conscious choice to respond, not react (Proverbs 16:32 & James 1:19).  Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% on how you either react or respond to it.