It may be acceptable in our world to verbally tear a person down or discredit him/her as a way to take some kind of revenge for a personal offense, but it is not what Jesus taught. If we profess to be a follower of Christ, kindness and humility are to rule in our thoughts and actions. For this reason, Paul teaches us to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, because if we are thinking ugly thoughts it is just a short period of time until ungodliness exits our mouths or is displayed through our actions (2 Cor 10:5). The spiritual battle begins in the mind, so we must stop sin there.
Few biblical characters had a stronger or more impulsive personality than Peter—which frequently caused him to learn things the hard way. He was strong-willed and struggled to recognize his own weaknesses. Peter is not alone; most of us human beings fit in this category if we are honest. Yet, through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, Peter learned to operate his life in humble Christlikeness.
In our passage today, Peter writes and encourages every believer to think like Jesus. When we have the mind of Christ, we allow the Spirit to produce the fruit of his character within and subsequently through us. As we read these words today, may we take an honest look at ourselves. Every day we are given a choice of living for Christ [eternal Life and divine blessing] or living for the world [sin and death under a curse] (Deut 30:19). Let’s learn the easy way and ask the Spirit to lead us into the blessing, today. I am praying for us…
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, we bow with a humble posture and pray for the power to keep our hearts clean, our thoughts righteous, our mouths speaking blessings, and our actions Christlike. In Jesus’ name. Amen.