Poisoned.

"But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers."

(Acts 14:2)

It's easy to find "haters" in life. Most of us can identify them ahead of time... and steer clear. But every so often, people know know, love, and trust will say something that really changes how we think of something - and not in a good, positive way, either.

Paul and Barnabas come to Iconium to share the gospel. They spoke to both Jews and Gentiles - in the synagogue and in town. The author says that some "unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers." Wow. The phrase that really hit me was "poisoned" their minds.

We all have our opinions about things. There's nothing wrong with sharing our opinions with friends & family (when they ask for it!). But we go too far when we "poison the minds" of others about a topic. ANY TOPIC. When we let our cynicism, our bitterness, our past pains and hurt infect others... that's not good. Especially when we spew this vileness with those we love.

I don't want to do that as a father, husband, brother, son, uncle, friend or even pastor. LORD, guard my heart and my mouth. Help me keep from "poisoning the minds" of others - no matter how passionate I may be about something. AMEN.