I was just speaking with a brother the other day about how cynical and sarcastic I used to be before I became a Christian. Of course, those of you who know me and love me are raising one eyebrow as I say this, because you know how sarcastic my sense of humor still is.
But I think the difference is that overall, my view of people has changed. I still have fun and exercise my gift of hyperbole at your expense. 
But the Spirit of the risen Christ within me has awakened a sense of the worth of people around me. And now I tend to see the best in people. I realize that as I’m typing that, it sounds very self-congratulatory. But it’s not. Believe me. Because my flesh is always on the prowl, the cynical, mocking and derisive Nathanael is always rearing his ugly head.
But God, in His mercy, is overcoming this and helping me become more like His Son who always sees the potential in people.
Lord help!
You were a rascal !!! I have seen the change in you and am proud of you and humbled as well. I was also a rascal but the Lord did not bless me with the gift of exercising such clever exaggerations on the spot. I usually think of things to say a lot later. However this gift is also used frequently in poetry to emphasize a point and I have been blessed by your poems both serious and humorous. The Lord knows far more than we could ever imagine. I love you man!!!
Thanks, brother.
I love you too.
I often brag on our Lord and the work (miracle) He performed in you and Becki.
You are raising your children in God’s Word and love.
From a rocky beginning to a beautiful family.
And He’s not done yet!
Can’t wait to see what He has in store for you guys.
I brag on both of you! I have the best big brothers ever! so there!
love you both!
Love you too.
It was so good to see you last week.
Study like the wind, young one!