Romans 12:14-18
Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Romans 12:14-18 (NLT)
These verses remind me of things we may have heard our parents, or other mentors, say over the years or kids may even say to each other when arguing (because they’ve heard it before): “It’s not all about you,” and “don’t be a know it all.” Did we know this advice came from the Bible?
The Bible is full of great advice for us to live by, but these verses really seem to sum it all up, a wonderful checklist to live by. Furthermore, if we just follow the greatest commandment, to love each other as we love ourselves and love God above all else, I think all these actions would come naturally.
If we truly loved our neighbors as we love ourselves as God desires, wouldn’t we want to try to understand their side? Wouldn’t we want to keep them from harm? Wouldn’t we feel happy when they are happy and sad when they are sad? Wouldn’t we want to be around them?
If we just put other people first in our thoughts, prayers, and actions and seek to understand, I think a peaceful and honorable life will be the side effect. This is God’s desire for us all, but it’s not always easy. Thank goodness for His grace when we fall short but keep on trying.
Questions for Reflection:
- What might putting this advice into action look like in everyday life?
- Taking the path of least resistance? The path toward peace and not conflict?
- Stopping and taking a deep breath (or several) before we respond or react?
- Trying to understand the other person’s point of view when we disagree?
- Trusting God to work all things out, instead of our own judgments or actions?
- What else?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, Giver of the Ultimate Advice, thank you for giving us scripture to teach us and to guide us, and thank you for sending The Holy Spirit to help remind us and nudge us in the right direction when less honorable thoughts cloud our minds. Thank you for Your grace when we don’t get it right. Please continue Your nudges and reminders to help us live peacefully and honorably in Your eyes until we meet you in Heaven. In Your name we pray, amen.
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