.JPG)
Just some reflections on Luke 6:24-27-36 after listening to
the recording of Bobby Kelly’s 2012 Winter Bible Study at FBC, Ponca
City.
“But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”Luke 6:27-31 ESV
We live in a culture of violence, and it can be difficult to
break out of that cycle. Where does it
stop? It is hard, but for those of us
empowered by the Holy Spirit, we encourage each other when we respond with love
and forgiveness instead of getting even.
When you strike back, you are behaving like someone of the world instead
of a follower of Christ, and it only makes things worse.
Ask yourself this, “Will this action or word that I am about
to do or say escalate or de-escalate the problem?”
This change of thinking is only truly possible with the
power of the Holy Spirit working in our lives.
1 comments:
...Good post, Elizabeth. The culture of violence manifests in obvious ways: anger, striking back, retribution, getting even, and more, even in the way nations relate one to the other.
What's not always obvious are the small irritations, snippy words, disgusted looks, impatience when someone questions us. It's something I struggle with all the time, and I do want a more consistently gentle answer, gentle countenance, even gentle thought toward those around me.
Thanks again for posting. It's a good reminder.
Dad
Post a Comment