4 Minute Read + Scripture readings
Today’s Bible Reading:
2 Kings 5
1 Timothy 2
Daniel 9
Psalms 117-118
Today’s Bible Verse(s):
Psalm 118:5–9 (CSB): “I called to the Lord in distress; the Lord answered me and put me in a spacious place. The Lord is for me; I will not be afraid. What can a mere mortal do to me? The Lord is my helper; therefore, I will look in triumph on those who hate me. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humanity. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in nobles.”
Reflections on Today’s Bible Verse(s):
Let’s get one thing straight. Some people can be mean. We are certainly capable of doing things that brings out the worst in others. But some people, for reasons all their own, will hate you even though you’ve done nothing wrong.
The unfortunate thing is that some of these people are a part of the church we attend. Sometimes, we find ourselves craving a utopian community where we can love and be loved. The church should be that. But oftentimes, it’s a community of unbelievers or immature Christians who mistreat each other.
So what are we to do? Do we return hate with hate? Do we militantly defend ourselves, even to the point of hurting our “enemy?”
Well, there are certainly options that we could consider. Our primary option, if the “enemy” is in our church would be to follow the pattern of Matthew 18:15-17. If it’s in your workplace or some other setting, and it’s a big enough offense, causing you legitimate fear, you may need to let a superior know.
But as a Christian, regardless of whichever option we take, we must live in faith. We must rely upon and trust in God‘s Word.
A section of Scripture that gave me great comfort as I rested in its promise are the verses that I chose for today. Why not re-read them, slowly, reflecting upon the comfort they can give you when if are struggling with someone who has set themselves against you. Pray them back to the Lord and trust that God will make them true of you.
Psalm 118:5–9 (CSB): “I called to the Lord in distress; the Lord answered me and put me in a spacious place. The Lord is for me; I will not be afraid. What can a mere mortal do to me? The Lord is my helper; therefore, I will look in triumph on those who hate me. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humanity. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in nobles.”
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Lord Jesus, as I read the Gospels I realize that You often had conflict with other people. You were the only perfect one to ever walk the face of the earth and yet You had enemies that despised You so much that they eventually crucified You. Help me to learn how I am to respond to those who hate me and who work against me. Let me not learn from the world but from Your Word. I pray this in Jesus’ Name, Amen
Matt’s Musings 