Be Ardent In Spirit
Let love be genuine; hate what is
evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo
one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering,
persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality
to strangers.
Bless those who persecute you; bless
and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who
weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with
the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for
evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is
possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never
avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written,
“Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” No, “if your enemies are
hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by
doing this you will heap burning coals on their
heads.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Some of us have bitterness about
getting rid of small slights, to say nothing of major offenses against us.
Pause right now and search your heart. If there is any bitterness toward
another or a desire for revenge, ask the Holy Spirit to help you so you will
not be overcome by evil of your own.
Our Daily
Bread –