Are there toxic people in your workplace? You know the type – the ones who never has a good thing to say, who complain about anything and everything, who love to be miserable? I am sure you do, for it has been my experience that they are in every organization.

I have learned, though, that it is better to learn to work with them than without them. I know that sounds strange, but the truth is that God brings all kinds of people into our lives so that we might pour out His love on them and along the way He transforms us more and more into the likeness of Christ. We have an opportunity to live each day truly as Christ did – from love, compassion and a whole lot of tolerance. Is it easy? No, not always. But is it worth it? Yes!

I believe God brings certain toxic people into our lives in order that they may experience His grace through us, and to teach us how to love them in spite of ourselves. According to God’s word we are made new each day, so we have a new opportunity to love each day anew. God’s word also teaches us that love overcomes all. Next time you encounter a toxic person, remembers to love them anew each day.

"Be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love. Always keep yourselves united in the Holy Spirit, and bind yourselves together with peace." Ephesians 4:2-3

Heavenly Father, thank You, for the gift of love. I ask for Your help in loving all. Teach me to love; teach me to be humble; teach me to be gentle; teach me to be patient; and teach me to speak words that build up and not tear down. In Jesus' Name, Amen.