Be a Good Person. Period.

Growing up, we knew this lady, from church, who was the villain in our story.

A manipulator. 

An instigator. 

A provocateur.

But there was another family that saw her as the opposite...angelic, generous, full of light.

Same woman. Two very different testimonies.

It made me realize something: some people are only “good” to those they want to impress.

They’re kind to their church friends but cruel to the help.

They love their children but belittle their spouse.

They shower affection on their children but are cruel to the maid/help.

They speak in tongues on Sunday and curse out the driver on Monday.

....................

The truth is:

A good person is a good person...everywhere. With everyone.

Jesus didn’t say, “Let your light shine at church.”

He said, “Let your light shine before ALL men” (Matthew 5:16).

All includes your spouse, your staff, the waiter who got your order wrong, your neighbor who gets on your nerves, and yes…even your children.

The Bible also says in Luke 6:45, “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart…”

It doesn’t say a good spouse brings good things.

Or a good parent. 

Or a good friend.

It says a good person.

Because when goodness is truly in you, it flows out of you...regardless of the role you’re in.

But sadly, we live in a time where people compartmentalize goodness.

....................

He’s a great husband but his coworkers avoid him like the plague.

She’s an amazing mom but she’s vicious to the man she married.

They’re awesome with friends, but the kids would describe home as “walking on eggshells.”

Here’s the hard truth:

Being good in one area doesn’t cancel out bad behavior in another.

People in one area of your life shouldn’t have to be your punching bag just because you’re the hero somewhere else.

Be a good person.

Then be a good spouse.

Then be a good parent.

In that order.

Because the fruit of the Spirit isn’t limited to certain relationships.

Goodness, kindness, patience, and self-control are meant to show up everywhere.

So don’t just ask,

“Am I being a good spouse?”

Instead ask,

“Am I being a good person?”

Because a good person will always be a good spouse.

But a good spouse may not always be a good person.

👣 Be Better. 💛 Love Better. 🙌🏾 Do Better. 💍 Marriage Works.