A Call to Action 2
For the one who wants to love life and to see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit, and let him turn away from evil and do what is good. Let him seek peace and pursue it, because the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do what is evil. — 1 Peter 3:10-12
In the passage above, we see that living the good life God has promises that come with responsibility. He has laid out specific instructions for those who believe. The Bible teaches that a person’s behavior reveals their true character. Prior to this passage, the Apostle Peter says, "All of you be like-minded and sympathetic, love one another, and be compassionate and humble, not paying back evil for evil or insult for insult, but on the contrary, giving a blessing, since you were called for this, so that you may inherit a blessing."
We cannot receive God’s blessings if we are spreading hate and passing judgment, as if God has appointed us to do His work for Him. He has commanded us to be a blessing to others, to pray for one another, and to love as He loves us. I am reminded of how Joseph loved his brothers despite their betrayal. He told them that it was not his place to judge them for their wrongdoing because God had a plan, and He turned their actions for good. Joseph responded with love toward those who had mistreated him, and God rewarded him greatly.
A recurring theme throughout the Bible is that God often uses the most oppressed individuals for His glory. These are the people He chooses to deliver His blessings and lead His people. He gives them the strength to walk in love, even in the face of adversity. Cling to our Father in prayer as He guides you on this journey of love. He is with you every step of the way.
Key Takeaways:
The good life is available to every believer, but it comes at a cost.
The good life requires denying the flesh.
What we give is what we receive; we can only harvest the seeds we have sown.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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