The Backdrop
Think of the top three people you like to be around, not so much close friends, but people with whom you’re acquainted with and enjoy bumping into from time to time. Got some names? Now turn the question around. How many people would list you as someone they enjoy bumping into spur of the moment? That question might seem a little strange, but there is a reason we should ask this of ourselves once in awhile. Those who follow Christ are to be the kind of people others enjoy being around. This is because as we follow Christ by doing what He said to do, we become more like Him. As we become more like Him, it makes sense that we would become someone people like to be around.
The What
Most of the New Testament is directed toward showing believers what it looks like to live out the gospel message in the culture of the day. Because believers are to reflect God and His Son, God wants to be sure we are reflecting the right stuff! This is why many of God’s instructions are very specific. The passage below from
The verses are presented in a phrase-by-phrase, blow-by-blow fashion. As you read each phrase, take a moment to write down any situations you have in your life where you could apply the instruction. You may want to write down something specific that could be done in obedience to each instruction; and then of course, do it!
Romans 12:14-18
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position Do not be conceited.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.
18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
The So What
Are you up for a challenge? Try this: Focus on these instructions for the next week. Seek to make them a part of the fabric of every day by looking for opportunities to put these instructions into practice. After one week,, do it for another week. If this seems a bit daunting, narrow the list of instructions for each week. Chances are, at least one of these instructions plays to your weak spot(s). Start there. As you process your thoughts and actions through the filter of Romans 12:14-18 over a period of the next few days and weeks, you may find yourself reflecting Christ-like qualities. As you reflect Christ-like qualities, you’ll soon find you are someone people like to be around. Better yet, you may soon find God using you in ways you never imagined.
