by Phil Ware
“Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.” 1 Peter 3:8
Thoughts on today’s verse
Unity and harmony are no accident! They happen because of intention and submission. But more than just states of being, they are commanded by God. How do we have unity and harmony? Peter reminds us that we must have three commitments 1) actively share concern with those who grieve; 2) share love just like a healthy family does; and 3) show compassion rather than arrogance as we deal with others failures toward us.
Prayer:
Father, I confess that I have let my own over-sensitive self be wounded, and have reacted with pettiness when my brothers and sisters in Christ have not treated me as I felt I deserved. I know Jesus was treated so rudely and shamefully by those he created, so I know I shouldn’t be surprised. But Father, please help me to know when to challenge those who wound me with a loving confrontation and when to just ignore the barb and find a way to minister to them because of some deeper wound in their life. Father, let me be an instrument of your peace, harmony, and unity. Through Jesus I pray. Amen.
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