1 Peter 3:8-22 gives great instruction about how to get along with other people. At least the instructions are clear and we do have a choice whether to follow God’s plan or to lash out and allow chaos to exist in our lives.
What does living in harmony mean? The following verses will explain!
1 Peter 3: 8-16
8- Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.
9-Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
10For,
“Whoever would love life
and see good days
must keep his tongue from evil
and his lips from deceitful speech.
11- He must turn from evil and do good;
he must seek peace and pursue it.
12For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous
and his ears are attentive to their prayer,
but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
13Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?
14But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.
15- But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
16-keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
The little three year old boy was crying. His father entered his bedroom where the little boy was in his bed for nap time. His father asked, “son, why are you crying?” The little boy said, “I am afraid because of the lightening and thunder storm outside.” The wise father said to his son, “don’t be afraid, the storm is outside and you are safe inside.” Then the little boy laid his head down and fell asleep. I would say a few choice words heal the hearts of people and living in harmony is a vital part of getting along with other people.
Had the father been harsh or angry toward the son’s fears then that could have injured his son. Instead the wise words of the father soothed the inner most parts of his son and allowed peace to flow like a river inside that little boys soul.
Think about living in harmony with the people in your family and with those at your workplace or commute. Ask God to day to help your lips to speak kind truths and resist anything that would NOT help you get along with other people.
Just like the little boy- we can go to God–our Heavenly Father– and He will soothe our soul- Meditate on the love of God today. Give His love to others intently today.
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