Thoughts on Today's Verse...
A friend used to remind me that the number one goal in dealing with difficult people or circumstances is this: "Don't become what you hate." He wasn't talking about hating the person, but he meant that we don't want to become evil, wicked, petty, and sinful in our actions and motivations — the things we hate about their behaviors. We don't overcome the devil by underhanded and dishonorable means. We overcome evil and drive it back into the abyss of hell with the evil one by doing what is right and filling our hearts and lives with goodness (Philippians 4:). There is no greater example of overcoming evil with good than Jesus. And the Spirit is working with us to transform us to become like Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:18), whom we love and desire to emulate.
My Prayer...
Holy God, please bless us with your holy character as we resist those who are critical, cynical, and vengeful toward us because we are followers of Jesus. Please help us respond to our critics in ways reflecting Christ's character and Lordship. In his name, the name of Jesus, we ask this. Amen.
