The one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind; for the doubter, being double-minded and unstable in every way, must not expect to receive anything from the Lord.
—James 1:6-8

Oftentimes we expect to be treated justly no matter what the situation. Yet, we can find it difficult to offer the same honorable treatment to others. This truth can lie dormant for years, while we unthinkingly disturb the calm of those around us. 

We act in unjust and even harsh ways to some who we, for whatever reason, don't find to our liking. Scripture teaches us that love is not subject to partiality; we are to love others in the same way that we love ourselves and to treat those who are unfair to us with kindness and goodness.

When we make distinctions between who will receive fair treatment on one day and who will receive it on another, we lack consistency—in short, we are being double-minded.  We are "Like a wave in the sea, driven and tossed by the wind." Our stability and steadiness are compromised.  If we want to hear the voice of God with grace and magnitude, it is important that we practice doing the will of God without malice or strife in our hearts.  

In those times when we feel we have treated another person wrongfully and without honor, our soul will be brought back to peace when we go and ask the person for forgiveness. This simple task alone will lift the heavy burden of anxiety, shame, and guilt from our soul, and we will find spiritual comfort knowing that God is well pleased.

Gracious God, when I have doubts and seem to have lost my way, let your spirit of kindness and goodness flow through me like clear blue waters in the open sea.

_{Copyright ©2009 Cleophes Carter, Jr.}