Man in the Mirror
Posted on June 17, 2020 by Catey Stover in Freedom Fighters
“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Romans 12:18
The rules of engagement have changed for me since becoming a Christian. One of the most frustrating things to me was trying to make someone else change. “If they would just…” was a common thought in my mind. Coming to Christ and overcoming an addiction required me to realize I cannot change anyone, but God can.
When we begin to establish the ways of the Lord and grow our faith it is a huge relief to know that He is in control. Verses like “all things work together for good”, He will never leave you or forsake you” and “He it is that does go before you” are only a few that sustain us and keep us.
The verses that precede and follow Romans 12:18 “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men”, are key ingredients to a healthy perspective on life.
“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord”.
This can be a difficult task, it’s only when we are submitted to the Holy Spirit that this can be lived out.
We live in a time where it’s easy to grab on to a cause and demand that people change. Of course, we desire to see all come to the saving knowledge of Jesus and make every effort to do so. The slippery slope comes when our peace and joy are subject to change because of others actions. The danger of taking up a destructive cause to force people to side with you is futile and will at best cause an outward change while inwardly the heart is bitter.
Some final verses to consider when dealing with adversity, “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion”.
There may be a time to take a stand, but it’s important to identify the enemy, establish a goal to achieve and attack. If there is someone or something that comes up against your marriage, family, or ministry, these concerns need to be brought to the Lord in prayer before action. Often, this enemy is our own flesh, “Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?” James 4:1.
The Spirit of God can keep us in the joy of the Lord and give us power to withstand temptation. Knowing, Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,”] says the Lord. Therefore
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Written by Rob Russomano: Rob Russomano is married to Terri and serves with her as full-time staff members. He is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and is available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events. You can reach him at rrussomano@americaskeswick.org
Think About This: “If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him.“
The Daily Bible Reading: Psalms 128-132 | You can download our 2020 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here.
This Week’s Verse to Memorize: A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil [i]treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. –Luke 6:45
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the doctrinal and theological views held by America’s Keswick.