Dave’s Monday Blast – August 27, 2018
What effect does YOUR Christian faith have on YOUR interactions with others? That really is THE question isn’t it! I remind myself of what Josh McDowell said years ago, “If you were on trial…accused of being a follower of Christ…would there be enough evidence to convict you? Now that is convicting!
There are some people who claim Christ as savior, but the way they treat people doesn’t match their claim. None of us do this perfectly, but our reputation outside and inside the church should increasingly reflect the life of Christ within us.
It is important to have right theology and doctrine so we’ll be grounded in truth, but if we don’t live out what we believe, we’re missing what God intends. The church is supposed to be a witness to the world and a haven of safety for the gathering of believers. Jesus said, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35).
When Peter wrote his first letter, he explained how believers should respond to the various people in their lives (1 Peter 3:8). The following describe the qualities that should characterize each of us in our interactions with others.
1. We are to live in HARMONY with one another. The body of Christ consists of all kinds of people with different personalities, perspectives, spiritual gifts and interests and each one is essential. Paul describes it well in Ephesians 4:1-3.
2. Peter tells us to be SYMPATHETIC. This is more than just expressing words of comfort; it means being willing to suffer with those who are hurting. This requires a self-sacrificial attitude (Romans 12:15-16).
3. In our relationships we need BROTHERLY LOVE. (Romans 12:10)
4. We are to be KINDHEARTED. This is the opposite of being harsh, insensitive, self-centered, and uncaring. Ephesians 4:32 enlarges our understanding of what this looks like. In all interactions, we should seek to do good to others, treat them graciously, and not hold grudges.
5. We must be HUMBLE in spirit. Nothing hampers relationships like pride. Instead of focusing on ourselves, we put others first and consider them as more important (Philippians 2:3-4).
If all of these qualities characterize us, how will they affect our interactions with others? The real test comes when there are conflicts. That’s when we must choose NOT to act like the world (1 Peter 3:9-11). We must be known as peacemakers, not troublemakers. Rather than leaving a trail of criticism, dissension, and disharmony in our wake, we must seek to pave a pathway of reconciliation and peace. That is how we walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and reflect Christ likeness in our attitudes, word and actions.
As we INTENTIONALLY consider our relationships, let’s remember that how we treat other people is a powerful witness to the world and an example to those in the church. And sometimes God puts us in situations of conflict and animosity so He can demonstrate through us His mercy, grace, love and forgiveness. Those difficult relationships are not a curse but a blessing, and if we respond with a humble, compassionate, and kind spirit, we’ll bless others also. That is really good isn’t it!
