| Our verse to DATE the Word on December 18 (12/18) is Romans 12:18 |
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| Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” |
| Let there be PEACE! Romans 12 is considered one of the greatest chapters in the Bible. The Apostle Paul has transitioned from explaining the great doctrines of our Christian faith to teaching the duties of the Christian. His teachings will cover the duties of a believer to God who has graciously and mercifully saved the believer. His teaching will cover the implementation of ministering our spiritual gifts for the building up of one another. His teaching will cover how we relate to other believers, to the lost, and to those who mistreat and persecute us. As he teaches how to respond to those who disagree with us he appeals that we do our best to KEEP THE PEACE. He appeals that WE make every effort possible to live peaceably with ALL men. Are you a peacemaker or a peace breaker? As Jesus listed what we call the beatitudes He said “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Matthew 5:9 Our verse to DATE, to consider, to ponder calls for us to be actively involved in peacemaking with other people, others who just may not have any interest in a peaceful relationship. How, if we are to be working to KEEP THE PEACE, do we accomplish this? Let me give a few thoughts. First, know that you can disagree agreeably. You can debate over what is best without blowing the proverbial gasket. I have always believed a person has the right to be wrong. Second, not every argument has to be won. You don’t have to agree to argue every argument presented to you. It has been said that we need to decide what hill we want to die on and in the big picture of life, there really are not that many. Now there are some but in reality, there aren’t that many. Third, with relationships resolve to solve, not dissolve. Fourth, (from John Maxwell) practice the 101% rule. Find the 1% you do agree on and give that 100%. Fifth, (from Steven Covey) Seek first to understand before seeking to be understood and go for the WIN WIN! Sixth, (from Jesus) turn the other cheek and go the extra mile. These are but a few suggestions on how you can work to live peaceably. I am sure you can add to the list and I hope you do. The bottom line is we have from Romans 12:18 the instructions to do as much as possible to live peaceably. Verse to DATE the Word on December 18 (12/18) is Romans 12:18. It says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Continue Strong as a PEACEMAKER. And remember to DATE THE WORD |