Match the Energy of Jesus Christ!

The theme of this message came to me about a month ago. I was having a conversation with someone about how we operate in our relationship. I said to them, “I try to match your energy when I am upset because you have a way of calming me down.”

This is not always the case, but it’s a usual action I try to follow.

Now…for everyone else, this is not the case. Sometimes I want to be petty when folks know they are trying to get over on me. Sometimes I want to hit right back with “strong” words when someone is attacking me. And sometimes my energy is to turn the power completely off—meaning I will just cut you off and remove you from the equation for good.

But…as I was talking to the Lord, I was reminded of the power we have in displaying and executing within the energy of Jesus Christ.

You know…the ability to make others smile just because you smiled.
The gift to move quiet (shy) people from hiding to a place of comfort where they can share with the group.
The flowing energy that hits a room and instantly brings a positive, calming peace to the environment.
The energy that lifts a weary spirit—or that energetic force that literally restores order.

The challenge is we want to match folks’ energy, which I hear a lot:

• “Oh, they think they’re going to play me? Well, I’m going to match their energy.”

• “They want to be angry and distant? Well, I’m going to match their energy.”

• “They think I’m a pushover, but I’ll show them. I’m going to give them the same energy they gave me.”

Unfortunately, this is not how Jesus shows up.

What would happen if one day Jesus decided to match the energy that you show up with?
What if He were to treat you how you treat some of your colleagues or your manager?
What energy are you showing toward your spouse or sibling?
What energy did you show this past weekend to the cashier, the service provider, your friend, the server, or the person in traffic?
What energy did you show up with today—Jesus Christ’s or your own?

The next time you want to match someone’s energy (spirit), choose the road of Christ and follow the fruit of the Spirit.

No matter the other person’s actions.
No matter the chaos of your day.
And yes, no matter the wrong done to you.

Match Jesus’ energy through love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
(Galatians 5:22–23, NIV)