God's Glory Church

“Whenever possible, if it depends on you, live in peace with all people.” — Romans 12:18
Two people were seen at the table – one with a face distorted by bitter anger, and the other with a face full of heartache. A meeting of old friends had just erupted into shouting matches: one woman scolded another for her beliefs. The argument continued until the first woman walked out of the restaurant, leaving the other stunned and humiliated.

Do we really live in a time when differences of opinion cannot be tolerated with patience? Just because two people cannot agree does not mean that each of them is evil. Harsh words are never persuasive, and strong views should not trump decency or compassion.

The twelfth chapter of the Epistle to the Romans is an excellent guide on how to “love one another” and “think alike among yourselves” (vv. 10, 16). Jesus indicated that the characteristic feature of believers in Him is the love we have for one another (John 13:35). Although pride and anger can easily throw us off balance, they are the exact opposite of the love God wants us to show to others.

It is a challenge not to blame others when we lose control of our emotions. However, the words “if it depends on you, live in peace with all men” show that the responsibility for living a life that reflects the character of Christ cannot be transferred to someone else (Rom. 12:18). It rests upon each of us who bear His Name.

What words make you angry or resentful? How can you turn a bad situation into a peaceful one?
Loving God, please help me to show Your love through what I say and do, and always, whenever possible, to live in peace with others.
By Cindy Hess Kasper