So often a large fire is caused by the simple strike of a match. But where does the fire get its power? It comes from the fuel or wood that is added, not from the match.
Many times throughout our lives we may encounter comments from others that are like the strike of a match. Something abrasive was said, something hurtful, a stinging remark that caused us to feel the heat of the flame. Rather than let the fire from the match fizzle out, we add some wood to it by a retaliating comment, an angry look, or even a cold shoulder. The fire becomes larger, and it burns longer and begins to cause damage.
No fire can continue without fuel. Many verses in Scripture give instruction as to how we should treat others, but how we react to what is said or done to us is also vital. Have you felt the painful flame of anger? Your reaction is the key to whether it becomes a burning fire that could be harmful and get out of control. Don’t dwell on the striking of a match and kindle a fire that becomes a great matter. The flame will quickly die out if left untouched.
Sometimes in keeping a fire going we may not add wood that causes a big raging fire, but we do add small bits of fuel that cause a continuous burning and smoldering, even if the flame is not visible. This is like constantly dwelling on an issue and letting it consume us inside, even though nothing was said in retaliation and to all outward appearances there is no problem. But that constant inner burning will do much damage and destroy our joy in the Lord.
Remember, too, that a fire leaves scars. Sometimes after adding wood, we realize our mistake and manage to get the fire out ... but not without some damage being done and some scars left.
What an example the Lord Jesus was while here on earth. “Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example ... who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth: who when He was reviled, reviled not again” (1 Pet. 2:21-23).