Do Not Lag In Zeal

 

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.

 

Romans 12:9-21

 

Are you hospitable to strangers? Before you answer, really think about that. Most of us are not. We say we are, we throw money that way, but we do not throw ourselves into helping others who may need our help. We may be called outside our comfort zone for someone God wants us to help. Keep your mind open to those opportunities and possibilities.

 

To stretch your soul, reach out with the love of Jesus.

 

Our Daily BreadJanuary 18, 2008