It's very difficult to get along with everyone. In fact, certain personalities just tend to clash!
But when someone in your life upsets you, what is the proper response? If we are living in the Spirit, then our response should be one that demonstrates Christ's love. What if that person counters your love with more ugliness? Proverbs 25:21-22 gives us further direction: "If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you." It's the age-old concept of killing with kindness.
And if they still refuse to change their attitude? Well, thankfully Paul gives us an escape clause of sorts in Romans 12:18, "...as far as it depends on you." Paul understood that you can be gracious and loving all day long, but some people are a bit of a challenge!
Christ warned us that the world would hate us because of Him, and Paul takes this into account in this passage. Extend your olive branch, and if you are scorned in return, you know you've done your part.
PRAYER CHALLENGE: Think of someone with whom you are not in good terms. Pray that God would provide an opportunity to actively love them, as well as soften their heart to allow you to live at peace together.
from devotionals@seniorlivingministries.org
Today's Bible Verse...
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge ...—Psalm 91:4
Thoughts on Today's Verse... Life is filled with many uncertainties. You never know when something unexpected is going to happen. You have no idea when the next disaster will strike. In a world filled with hate and terrorism, none of us has a clue when the next horrible atrocity will take place. So what do we do when we can't be sure of our circumstances? We take shelter under the wing of the One who is above all circumstances! We take assurance in our Father who has promised to bring us to himself no matter what may happen today ... in our world ... and to our bodies. Our lives are hidden with our Father because we've been joined to Christ. He is our Refuge! His wings are our shelter!
My Prayer... Father, what words can I offer that are sufficient to thank and praise you for your deliverance that is greater than death? You are the Alpha and the Omega. You are the God who was and is and is to come. You are my Abba Father, who has adopted me and made me your own. I place my trust, my hope, and future in you and I will not be afraid. I find my refuge under your wings! All praise to you in the name of Jesus. Amen.
The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.
Today's Verse Illustrated...
Map of Where the Sinners Are by Nick Hobart
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