Monday 16 Oct 2017

October 16: Romans 12:14-18

Key Verse: Romans 12:16
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

Devotion:
Christ's definition of brotherly love is quite different to ours. We always have some reservations about someone or about something, whereas Christ held back nothing. When faced with people working or plotting against us, we need to bless them as people and not curse them. They are, after all, still people... We need to remind them of the fact they are God's children as well, that we all are God's children who He wants to live together in love and harmony.

We can show our support to people in all manner of ways; by rejoicing with those who are rejoicing, supporting those who are suffering grief, not withholding these things just because they have done something against us. We tend to turn our backs on people who have done things wrong or have worked against us. We shrug off the cries for help or support from those who have upset us. We know it is wrong, and yet we try to do things our way, to please ourselves. What we are doing is elevating ourselves above others and showing them we are above them.

If we are able to show love and compassion to anyone, it should be to those working against us. We need to remind them they still have a chance to get to know Christ, just like we have. When they do evil towards us, we need to show them good. People need to be reminded there is good in this world and they do not have to depend on evil. If at all possible, we should be living in peace; having to fight wars to uphold political arguments is not what God wants in our lives. How will He be able to show His love and support if we are fighting unjust wars?

Points to Ponder:
Do you argue at all?

How many times a day do you argue with God?