Devotion: Romans 12:18

Romans 12:18  If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 

Much of this month has been spent discussing how we can live at peace with those around us, how we can find peace in the midst of the chaos of life, and how to rest in His peace. But what happens when we can’t control the actions of others and our life is still full of chaos and disorder? What do we do as believers if we face issues like that? How do we achieve peace in those situations?

In Romans 12:18 the Apostle Paul gave us the answer to those questions. If it is possible… IF. Not when. Paul told us that it is not going to be possible to live at peace with everyone at all times. Peace is not something we can achieve on our own. True peace takes two people to reach. But oftentimes we cannot control the response of another person or an enemy.

But that does not mean we react in the same manner. We are told prior to this verse to hate evil and hold on to what is good (Romans 12:9). Paul the warns against responding in the same manner as others, instead instructing believers to do what is right (Romans 12:17).  We do not respond with retaliation but with love. We trust that God will handle the situation and will be just in His response (Romans 12:19).

We have a responsibility to be the light to a dark world. We are to love everyone, to turn the other cheek, to respond in kindness and love (Romans 12:20). We are not to fight back. We must understand that our lives are living testimonies of God’s grace and love, and often the world does not see that except through our actions. Do you want your response to turn someone away from God or to Him?

We are called to clear our own records instead of responding with excuses that we are justified in our response. We need to drop our pride and let go of our bitterness and anger at how we are being treated. We are never to be the source of conflict. We are to do our part and as far as we are able, do what is right to reconcile and bring about resolution. Then we leave it in His hands and let Him do the rest.

Prayer: Lord, Help me to let go of my human responses to conflict in my life and let me instead respond with Your love and grace. Let them see You in my response. Amen

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