A Lightning Rod

Awhile ago I was told I was a lightning rod for conflict. That comment really stung and it took some time before I could enter into loving, meaningful conversations with the person who said that to me again. I interpreted their comment to mean that they believed I was a troublemaker, a rabble-rouser and/or someone who enjoys stirring up drama. It hurt me to think my behavior looked like that to someone I cared about. I understood why the comment was made, though. For some reason, I am someone others do occasionally feel very comfortable unloading their fears and hostility upon. Could it be that my behavior was the reason I experienced these moments of unkindness? After a great deal of prayer and personal reflection, I came to the conclusion that, yes, the kind of person I am does, indeed, attract those who feel a need to unload their negative energy; but not for the reasons I assumed when the label “lightning rod” was placed upon me. I will share what I have learned in the hopes that it will help someone else who might be of a similar ilk.

Lightning Rod is defined as “A person or thing that attracts and absorbs powerful and esp. negative or hostile feelings, opinions, etc., thereby diverting such feelings from other targets.” For some reason, God has wired me in such a way that others are drawn to pour out their negative energy upon me instead of someone else. To me, that is a ministry to those who are much more deeply hurt by negative comments than I am. No. That’s not really true. I am deeply hurt by such comments and I cry and hide just as much as the next guy. However, I am pretty good at forgiving such offenses eventually. For whatever reason, I just can’t hold on to those things for very long. Besides, God wants to take a hold of those offenses for us, anyway. I love Him and trust Him to be my defender. So, after nursing my wounds for awhile, I dust myself off and go on. I continue to love those who curse me; not because it is easy, but because it is the desire of my Father.

When I was looking up the word “lightning,” I misspelled it “lightening” and was so blessed because I did! Look at the definition for that word: To lessen the oppressiveness, trouble, or severity of. To relieve of cares or worries; gladden. If being the recipient of negative comments lessens trouble for those around me whom I love, I’ll do it gladly.

Oh, OH! And one meaning for “Rod” is “branch of a family, tribe.”

When I put it all together, especially in the context of my Christian family, God made me to be able to absorb hostility for my family so others don’t have to. I can be used by God to relieve their cares; to gladden the Body of Christ!

Oh, Yes! That is the kind of Christian I want to be!

A LIGHTENING ROD!