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1 Peter 3:8-9 - Living in Harmony With One Another.1 Peter 3:8-9 (NIV) Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.1 Peter 3:8-9 (NLT) Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. 9 Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it. INTRODUCTION In our fallen world, it is often deemed acceptable by some to tear people down verbally or to get back at them if we feel hurt. Peter, remembering Jesus' teaching to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:39), encourages his readers to pay back wrongs with a blessing, such as praying for the offenders. In God's Kingdom, revenge is unacceptable behavior, as is insulting a person, no matter how indirectly it is done. Rise above getting back at those who hurt you. Instead of reacting angrily to these people, pray for them. [Life Application SB] COMMENTARY PEARL Bless Your Rival The rivalry between the Michigan State Spartans and the University of Michigan Wolverines occasionally goes too far, with fans fighting in the streets or athletes attacking each other. But after Michigan State experienced a school shooting, their rival offered love and support. Wolverine players donned t-shirts honoring Michigan State, and fans waved a flag proclaiming "Spartan Strong." Similarly, Jesus calls His followers to give kindness to their enemies. When Christians receive hatred or anger, they should return a blessing. Peter explains the reason: "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example" (1 Peter 2:21). When Christ suffered, He didn't get angry, make threats, or protest the unfair treatment. Instead, He patiently endured, giving His life for His persecutors. He overcame the temptation for revenge, and He calls you to share His victory. It's all a matter of whom you choose to trust. When you take your own revenge, you trust yourself for protection. When you respond with kindness, you demonstrate your trust in God's care. Quoting a psalm of King David, Peter promises, "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous" (1 Peter 3:12). The Lord sees everything you endure for His sake. He'll make things right in His own time. Those who follow Christ's example by returning evil with kindness will inherit a blessing. Do you want to "love life and see good days"? Then refrain from evil speaking, "do good' and "seek peace" (vv. 10, 11). When you trust your life to His care, He will help you overcome the temptation to avenge - and bless you with long life and good days. Dear Jesus, I want to follow Your example. Please help me bless those who hurt me. [The Most Amazing Bible Promises by Amazing Facts] LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY 1 Peter 3:8-9 - Living in Harmony With One Another. https://www.abible.com/devotions/2022/20220501-1038.html Ephesians 4:32 - The Grace of Kindness and Compassion. http://www.abible.com/devotions/2009/20090813-1021.html Proverbs 25:21,22 - Kill Them With Kindness? https://www.abible.com/devotions/2005/20050223-1200.html Proverbs 20:22 - Vengeance Belongs To God - Wait Patiently For Him. https://www.abible.com/devotions/2024/20240515-0817.html Romans 12:19-21 - Vengeance Belongs to God. https://www.abible.com/devotions/2024/20240113-0724.html Matthew 5:43, 44 - How To Love Your Enemies! https://www.abible.com/devotions/2020/20201021-0920.html LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT https://abible.com/links/ |