Bless those who persecute you. Bless them, and don’t curse them. Be happy with those who are happy. Be sad with those who are sad.
Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be arrogant, but be friendly to humble people. Don’t think that you are smarter than you really are. (Romans 12:14-16 (GW)
Life in the Kingdom of God is different from the kingdom of this world. The world around us is governed by selfish values and priorities, while Jesus calls His followers to deny themselves.
Often, our expectations of others are unrealistic. As Christian believers, we can't expect the world around us—people, companies, governments, and so on—to have the same values and worldview we do.
This sets up paradoxical situations in life, things that seem at odds with one another. This clash of values should be expected. And yet, when we live our lives in contradiction to what surrounds us each day, it creates an attractiveness to our way of life.
When we bless instead of curse others, we reflect the very nature of Jesus. When we choose humility over arrogance, it disarms people.
Expressing joy rather than jealousy when others are blessed makes us a joy to be around. Showing compassion for people at times of grief builds trust and valued relationships.
The key to harmony in life with others is often as simple as compassion, graciousness, and humility on our part. ©Word-Strong_2016