There’s a custom that used to be common among an ancient group of people, but it has been very rare in most cultures throughout human history. It’s the custom of being kind to people who say and do unkind things. The people who treasured that powerful custom were the sincere followers of the risen Jesus during the first through the third centuries. The Bible talks a lot about their custom of loving their enemies.
Open your eyes.
Let’s become wise.
When disagreement
Is demonized
True freedom dies.
It’s time that we see,
People have the right
To disagree
With you and with me.
If you want people to change, let them see and feel the fruit of God the Holy Spirit living and working in and through you. “Humble yourself.” (James 4:10) “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44) “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink.” (Romans 12:20)
“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” (Romans 12:14) “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing,” (1 Peter 3:9) “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32) “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21) “Be filled with the Spirit . . . always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 5:20)
My human nature doesn’t want to obey those Scriptures. (Does yours?) Yet there they are. We can ignore them or try to explain them away but open the Bible. Those verses are still in it!
It’s easy to say
I believe the Bible,
But until you obey,
It’s mere words that you say.
If you truly believe
That Jesus is the way
Take up your cross daily,
Die to your own desires,
And do what Christ requires!
Free Gas for Your Think Tank -- Short Reflections, Lasting Encouragement 