“Make every EFFORT to live in peace with all men and be holy” (Hebrews 12:14).
I know it seems unfair! How many times should you have to be the patient one? Last time you showed her kindness she didn’t seem to notice at all. She only sees things from her point of view. Maybe treating her the way she treats you makes more sense. Or does it?
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18).
Sometimes it feels like too much EFFORT to live in peace with others. You worry they will take advantage of your kindness. How will they ever learn to see your needs unless you teach them a lesson? Is there a better way?
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good”(Romans 12:21).
When we feel too weary to make one more EFFORT toward peace, we find our strength in God. We come to Him, asking for the power to overcome evil with good.
“For this very reason, make every EFFORT to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love” (2 Peter 1:5-7).
Maybe the challenging person sees our example and learns. Maybe she doesn’t! We will learn if we follow the leader. Jesus calls us to live at peace with everyone. The work God does is more about our character than the characters we interact with.
She who has ears, let her hear. True peace is found within. Trust God to begin the work He has begun.
He is faithful;
your EFFORT
is not in
vain.
I had to wrestle a bit this week. It was all a misunderstanding in the end, but it certainly took effort to unpack what had gone wrong and to understand each other! I am your neighbour on FMF
It’s interesting how much effort it takes to do what is good. That’s why we need the saving grace of Jesus. Thanks for sharing this.
It does take effort to live in peace. Been dealing with this too! God bless. ❤️ G