2 Corinthians 5:10 NLT
For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body.
When we let this sink into our hearts, our view of the world around us will shift from having to face down every atrocity that we see to knowing that Jesus will be the one that dispenses justice, and it will be fair and just.
We will start to see the world around us with softer eyes, less critical, and with more compassion. Or it should.
1 Peter 3:9 NLT
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.
Please understand that this is meant for everyday interactions between reasonable people. People who are on extreme should be and must be dealt with. People who commit crimes against others should face the justice system that the current society has in place.
Romans 13:1-2 NLT
Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished.
But with regards to everyday dealings, we shouldn’t be on the lookout for every ill that we see and think that it is our responsibility to make every wrong right.
For the Christian, our focus should be on what we can do to serve the needs of the people around us—making that our attention doesn’t leave time for us to be so critical.
Colossians 3:12-15 NLT
Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
These verses don’t leave to much room for the “buts” that may fill our minds.
Heavenly Father, Thank You for the Spirit living in me. The promise is that the Spirit living in us is greater than the spirit of this world.
Let my focus be on the needs of those around us and let that be with compassion and not with critical judgment and condemnation.
I am grateful for those who You have placed in my life, and I pray that You continue to give me the desire to be “ready to forgive” and “full of unfailing love for ALL who ask for my help.”
In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray, Amen!! 🙏❤️
