Instead, be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other just as God in Messiah also forgave you. Ephesians 4:32, TLV

Today is a test. You know that right? Today, the last of America’s voters will stand in long lines to make their political choices. Around our country, first responders are on high alert for impending rioting and other bad behavior — from both sides of the aisle. If this continues, we’re failing as a nation.

Placing the blame on virulent rhetoric — on both sides — for stirring up the populace is believing that the cow causes lactate intolerance. There is a schemer behind the scenes and it’s not human.

So Yeshua said again, “Amen, amen I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All those who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate! If anyone comes in through Me, he will be saved. He will come and go and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal, slaughter, and destroy. I have come that they might have life, and have it abundantly!

JESUS, JOHN 10:7-10, TLV

Are we listening to the Good Shepherd, or are we paying attention to the legions of voices coming from the thief?

There are emotional issues. If we are troubled by those whose words confuse or concern us, take it to The Shepherd, not the sheep. If we’re devastated by the final results, then take it to The Shepherd, not the sheep.

Today and the days following are a test for those of us who follow The Good Shepherd. How will we respond? In bitterness and rage and anger and quarreling and slander, along with all malice? (Ephesians 4:31). Or, instead, we will be kind, forgiving, and compassionate? Will we follow The Good Shepherd who laid down His life for us? Today is the test.

Is today a test for you?