Your Neighbor is a Person, Not a Prospect
Live Good Lives – Part 2
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-17
Key Verse: 1 Peter 2:12
Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
Yesterday’s thoughts reminded us that people living outside of God’s family will often attack God’s people with accusations. We should expect it and plan to respond in a Christ like way!
The Apostle Peter offers a solution to these attacks: “Live such good lives among the pagans…that they see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.” Once again, we see the Bible’s most excellent way of winning people. It’s not through arguments or heavy handed persuasion, but putting our love into action.
Love in action is not a debatable deal. No one can be offended or argue some theological point. Love in action simply treats another person as a valued eternal soul—worthy of some assistance. Our good lives may shine the light on their sinful lives. This spotlight may make them react harshly toward us, but Peter believes that in the end love will win! Those that try to accuse will simply have to admit our good way of living and see God in us!
In my opinion, the main point in all this is: treat people as God sees them—valuable. Don’t treat them as we may perceive they deserve, treat them as we know God treated us—with unconditional love! Love wins!
Father, loving people who are being unloving toward me is really hard. Please grant me your grace and strength so I can be used by you to win others to your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.