If it is possible…
The memory verse for children’s Bible quizzing this past week was Romans 12:18.
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
I thought the verse was a very timely so I posted it on FB. A side note: I have seriously thought of leaving FB due to the increase in negative posts and comments and even a certain combative feel. But each time I think I am out of here, God encourages me to stay. One of the comments I received from the Romans12:18 post was “I find the disclaimers very heartening!” that comment lead me to further pondering of Romans 12:18 and I came across a short devotional written by Rick Warren. As you probably know Rick Warren is the pastor of Saddleback Church and a well known writer, I appreciate his thoughts on this verse.
“The Bible says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). Notice the two qualifiers in this verse. First, it says “if” it is possible, not “it is.” Second, it says “as far as it depends on you.” I don’t know if you’ve learned this yet, but it’s not always possible to live at peace. There are some people who, no matter what you do, are still going to poke you in the eye. It doesn’t have anything to do with you. It has to do with their pain and their hurt. You know what I love about the Bible? It always tells the truth about God, life, and human behavior. The Bible points out that it’s not always possible to live at peace with everybody. There are some people you just can’t get along with. There are some people who, no matter how nice you are to them, are still going to be mean to you. God says you need to realize that it’s not about you. Then, you need to move on. What does “as far as it depends on you” mean? How can you apply this qualifier to a specific struggle you have with someone in your life? If you struggle, thinking you must be at peace with everyone, even those who poison your life, you may need to take a step of faith toward believing Romans 12:18. Ask God to help you.”
I love Rich Warren’s insights on the Bible. Sometimes we just need to scroll past the ugly on FB – I do it all the time.
Love this…