” Quietly trust yourself to Christ your Lord, and if anybody asks why you believe as you do, be ready to tell him, and do it in a gentle and respectful way.” 1 Peter 3:15 (TLB)
Respect
Respond with kindness (*Ephesians 4:32)
Embrace the differences (*Colossians 3:11)
Serve with a willing heart (*Romans 12:9-11)
Pursue righteousness over being right (*Proverbs 21:21)
Earnestly care for people, nature, and yourself (*Titus 2:7)
Choose integrity even when it isn’t easy (*Galatians 6:9)
Treat others better than they expect you to (*Philippians 2:3)
* “Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God has forgiven you because you belong to Christ.” Ephesians 4:32 (TLB)
* “In this new life one’s nationality or race or education or social position is unimportant; such things mean nothing. Whether a person has Christ is what matters, and he is equally available to all.” Colossians 3:11 (TLB)
* “Don’t just pretend that you love others: really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of good. Love each other with brotherly affection and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.” Romans 12:9-11 (TLB)
* “The man who tries to be good, loving, and kind finds life, righteousness, and honor.” Proverbs 21:21 (TLB)
* “And here you yourself must be an example to them of good deeds of every kind. Let everything you do reflect your love of the truth and the fact that you are in dead earnest about it.” Titus 2:7 (TLB)
* “And let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t get discouraged and give up.” Galatians 6:9 (TLB)
* “Don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself.” Philippians 2:3 (TLB)
As I thought about the prompt today, I realized I could never write words better than The Word itself can; so let me leave you today with this:
“It is God’s will that your good lives should silence those who foolishly condemn the Gospel without knowing what it can do for them, having never experienced its power. You are free from the law, but that doesn’t mean you are free to do wrong. Live as those who are free to do only God’s will at all times. Show respect for everyone. Love Christians everywhere. Fear God and honor the government.” 1 Peter 2:15-17 (TLB)
On this last Friday of July I’m joining once again with others over at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com to write to the prompt “Respect”. Click over to read more! I am grateful for your presence here. Know that it means so much to me! God Bless You!