Today’s Scripture: Micah 6:8, Romans 12:9-19
The same way a judge defers to the law as the standard for making judgments, we must live by a certain guideline, as well. What better standard than the consistency of scripture? While Micah the prophet spoke in general terms that we are to “do justly,” Paul the apostle goes into much more detail by filling in the blank for us. Consider his admonitions from Romans 12:
- Hate what is evil and cling to what is good
- Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
- Honor one another above yourselves
- Keep your spiritual fervor (zeal) as you serve the Lord
- Be joyful in hope and patient in affliction
- Stay faithful in prayer
- Share with God’s people who are in need and practice hospitality
- Bless—don’t curse—those who persecute you.
- Live in harmony with one another
- Don’t be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position
- Don’t be conceited
- Don’t repay evil for evil
- Do what is right in the eyes of everybody
- Live at peace with everyone—or as much as you possibly can
- Don’t take revenge. Leave that up to God
This list may sound challenging, but nothing the Lord requests is impossible. Everything He instructs us to do is for our own good—and the good of others. We just need to make the necessary adjustments so our lifestyle aligns with His Word.
- As you read through Paul’s list of Godly behavior, which ones stand out as areas that might need more attention on your part? Pick one today that you’ll commit to work on. Where will you start?
- Which people do you find the most challenging to act justly toward? Who will change first—you or them?