1 Peter 2:1-4
So get rid of your feelings of hatred. Don’t just pretend to be good! Be done with dishonesty and jealousy and talking about others behind their backs. Now that you realize how kind the Lord has been to you, put away all evil, deception, envy, and fraud. Long to grow up into the fullness of your salvation; cry for this as a baby cries for his milk.
Come to Christ, who is the living Foundation of Rock upon which God builds; though men have spurned him, he is very precious to God who has chosen him above all others.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
I read an editorial column in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette this week from one of my favorite OpEd writers, John Brummett. He was talking about a potential Vice Presidential running mate, who he described as “less crazed and incompetent than he is substantively mean.”
We seem to have a lot of “substantively mean” people among us these days. These people pretend to be “good” – and they may really be smart, competent people. But such people will lie, cheat, and steal to get what they want – or to get things to go their way. They will say one thing to people in certain circles – and quite another elsewhere. Think of those “Christians” who say, “We love all people” while also claiming that certain people and groups are not welcome in their places of worship or church memberships. Or think of those who are all about a good “food drive” or mission fundraiser/trip…but they disparage the needy in their own backyards and even declare that some of them should “get a job and get off welfare!”
God has been so good to you and me. We live in an abundance of riches. Yes, there are those in our communities and neighborhoods who are less fortunate. And we must not speak and act in a way that attempts to elevate ourselves and widen the gap. God loves all of us…and His word and will are offered for every single person. This is something those in positions of leadership and political power would do well to remember. But I firmly believe the “movement” begins with you and me. We must set the example…we must start the process and demonstrate to others how to speak, act, and live in a way that glorifies God and His abundant love and blessings over our lives.
Peter is right…get rid of hatred. Stop being phony liars and cheaters. Quit being so critical of others and instead speak of the amazing love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness that God offers us all through the blood of Jesus Christ. In a nutshell, stop being “substantively mean.” God despises this! We cannot be selfish, arrogant witnesses and servants. We can do better – and we should! Ask God to show you where and how to be a humble, faithful servant today and to treat others as you wish to be treated, for the glory of His Kingdom. Alleluia!
©2024 Debbie Robus
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