Intro: In our passage today, the Apostle Peter wants believers to look at life as a whole through the lens of God’s love. I imagine we would all theologically agree with Peter; however, when someone we care about is verbally unkind to us or speaks critically about us, those actions can be very difficult to forgive or emotionally move beyond. Our minds spin as we try to understand that person’s motive. Words can convey blessings or curses. When we are verbally wounded or cursed, the temptation arrises to protect ourselves from further interaction or insult.
If we come into our relationships with “one mind” and remain focused on sharing life, we will find it easier to keep compassion at the center of our actions. This should certainly be the mindset of believers to one another. We are to approach our spiritual brothers and sisters with a humble and sympathetic mindset—to rejoice with them or cry with them. If we notice someone is facing challenging times, we should come alongside him or her to share our concern through prayer. If we notice someone is rejoicing over spiritual breakthroughs and answers to prayer, we should join him or her to offer praise. When we work for this kind of peace—oneness—between us, we set ourselves up to be blessed by our Lord.
Blessings are gifts from God to his children; they all flow from our Creator’s love for us. God’s blessings empower, strengthen, and enrich our lives with righteous things that lead us into fruitful living and spiritual well-being. We can help one another share and enjoy these wonderful blessings. But, let’s never forget, the greatest blessing we will ever be given is the salvation and new life we receive by faith in Christ. Blessings for your day!
1 Peter 3:8-12 NLT All Christians
8 Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. 9 Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing. 10 For the Scriptures say,
“If you want to enjoy life
and see many happy days,
keep your tongue from speaking evil
and your lips from telling lies.
11
Turn away from evil and do good.
Search for peace, and work to maintain it.
12
The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right,
and his ears are open to their prayers.
But the Lord turns his face
against those who do evil.”
Prayer: Lord, it is a temptation to retaliate when we are insulted or diminished by others. Although this should never be the case among your children, we know it can and will happen if we focus on ourselves more than you and the call we have to work for peace. Help and empower us to speak the truth in love to one another. Holy Spirit, increase our self-control to tame our tongues, so we can share life and do good. In Jesus’ name. Amen.