Overcoming Faith

The Gift of Faith
Tests of Faith

Struggling Faith

Romans 12:14-21  The Message

^14-16 Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down. Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody.
^17-19 Don’t hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody. Don’t insist on getting even; that’s not for you to do. “I’ll do the judging,” says God. “I’ll take care of it.”
^20-21 Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he’s thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don’t let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.

For Reflection
Finally, an alternative to the practice of vengeance!  Vengeance is a deadly downward spiral into hellish living.  Motivated by self-indulgence and fueled by fear, vengeance promotes no winners.  if you are the one who feels the pain of injustice, heal the wound.  Avoid being seduced by the common practice and be engrossed in the practice of loving.

Pray

for greater and greater capacity to love.  Pray for your enemies.  Pray so that you will not become judgmental.  Leave the rewards and punishments to God.