Day 37: ALWAYS Give Thanks!
And remember to live peaceably with each other. 1 Thessalonians 5:13b
Why do you suppose the Apostle Paul had to remind the Thessalonian Christians to “… live peaceably with each other”? We know the answer to that question, don’t we? As followers of Jesus we sometimes find it difficult to live peaceably with our brothers and sisters in Jesus. It’s often easier to be critical of a brother or sister in Jesus Christ than a non-believer, because our standards are higher for believers! The reality is as followers of Jesus, our lives ought to be lived at a “higher level,” but when we fall short of living where Jesus wants us to be—and where we want ourselves to be—that is the time when God’s grace, which has already been shown to us, needs to be offered to the offending brother or sister.
I’m not saying that living peaceably with one another means that we always “forgive and forget,” no matter what happens or what the motive may be, when a brother or sister in Jesus offends us. I’m saying that when a brother or sister offends us unintentionally that we are to demonstrate grace by forgiving and moving on, and when a brother or sister offends us INTENTIONALLY, then we need to address the matter, and if possible bring about reconciliation. If it isn’t possible to bring about reconciliation, because the offending party won’t admit wrong doing, or doesn’t want to be reconciled, then our part is done after we have offered to reconcile—so long as it is offered in sincerity.
During my life in the church, which now spans five decades, I have seen and unfortunately been part of many situations where brothers and sisters in Jesus did not live peaceably with each other. I have been both the offending and the offended party in some of these situations, while being just an observer in others. The key is to remember that in so far as it lies with us, we are to live in peace with all people. As we make that effort, we can be sure that we will see others around us become more grateful, since everyone is grateful when there is harmony among us!
Questions and Comments for Reflection and Action:
What do you do in your daily life to be proactive in promoting peace among your Christian brothers and sisters?
Is there any one you know with whom you need to “make peace” right now? Plan to approach the person THIS week!
Take some time right now to ask God to bring peace among each and everyone of us who calls New Life home.