Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 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 conceited. Repay no one evil for evil, but 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. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:14-21
"Whatever the news and whatever the election results, the purpose of the Lord will stand.” These are the words of a WORLD WATCH commentator and we can be sure that he is right. God has his purpose for all things even when we do not understand his purpose. God’s thoughts are not our thoughts and his ways are not our ways.
That means that whether our finite minds think chosen leaders are good or not, we rest in the fact that God knows what he is doing and we look forward to seeing what that is. In the meantime, there are ways that we know we are to respond to those that we may perceive as enemies because they believe that wrong is right. They think that abortion (murder) is right and they think that same-sex marriage (homosexuality) is right. We are against murder and homosexuality and we hate them, but we do not hate those who believe they are right even when they hate us and persecute us. Christians hate evil but Christians do not hate any person. Instead, Christians bless them by rejoicing with them and mourning with them and living in harmony with all people, no matter their color or their economic or social status. Christians do not take from their enemies but give to them whatever help they need.
That does not mean that we agree with our enemies or not try to change that which is wrong. It’s how we do it that matters. Some suggestions:
- We vote, and we vote not only for honest leaders, but for good policies.
- We try to persuade wrongdoers to do that which is right.
- We speak the truth and expose lies.
- We contribute financially to that which is good.
- We volunteer our time and efforts for good causes.
- We pray for our leaders.
And remember: Our goal at this time in America’s history is to not be overcome by evil, but to overcome evil with good.
Excellent words of advice to encourage a right response as children of the light in a dark world. Thank you! I shared this on my FB page.
ReplyDeleteIt is always a wise thing to remember believers have a King who reigns and gives his people all they need to live as citizens who represent his Kingdom.
ReplyDeleteEach of us must encourage one another with Truth. Thanks for reaching so many with this reality.
Thank you Rosemary! Love Mike and Beth.
ReplyDeleteThank you Rosemary! Love Mike and Beth.
ReplyDeleteThank you Rosemary! Love Mike and Beth.
ReplyDeleteHi Rosemary!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for you encouraging words. We are in a difficult time and it’s not just the political aspect but we see it in our extended family and friends. Your points are helpful to me as I converse with those who are no longer walking with the Lord.
Love in Christ!
Brad
Hi Rosemary,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your “sharpening iron” for this challenging time. God always has an answer, and His Word is it! The verses in Romans certainly sharpened some dull edges for me in responding to some family and friends this week. May the true church arise with truth and grace in the days ahead to those who desperately need our Lord Jesus Christ.
I look forward each week to your sharing the thoughts God has given you and your time with us!
In Christ,
Carol