As believers, we have a great advantage in this life – God’s very words. What a gift He has given us! Why would we ever forfeit that power?! We wouldn’t knowingly, would we? But, sometimes outside influences distract us and become louder than the scriptures that are supposed to guide and direct us. We can so easily become disoriented and forget who we are and what we are supposed to be doing. We, as believers, need to be circumspect about what voices inform us and make sure that every voice aligns with God’s! Romans 12:9-21 gives us some great instruction:
Let love be genuine.
Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.
Love one another with brotherly affection.
Outdo one another in showing honor.
Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit.
Serve the Lord.
Rejoice in hope.
Be patient in tribulation.
Be constant in prayer.
Be contribute to the needs of the saints.
Seek to show hospitality.
Bless and don’t curse those who persecute you.
Rejoice with those who rejoice.
Weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another.
Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.
Never be wise in your own sight.
Repay no one evil for evil.
Give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
Never avenge yourself.
If your enemy is hungry; feed him.
If your enemy is thirsty; give him something to drink.
Do not overcome by evil; overcome evil with good.
Thank you, God, for reminding us who we are in you and how we best reflect you in this world. Thank you that your Holy Spirit gives us the power to walk as true believers because we can not do so in our own flesh. We commit that we will be mindful of who is informing us and will make sure their words line up with yours. We ask that you open our eyes to the world around us – that we would see the hurting, the broken and the lost, and that we would be faithful to share the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ so that many will be saved! Amen!
~ Kristine Morgan