Romans 12:14-21 – How to Be Good

Read Romans 12:14-21

There are so many little gems in today’s reading, all pointing toward making us better human beings in our relationships with others. What do we see?

The first one is probably one of the hardest. We are to bless those who have wronged us or hurt us in some way, especially for our faith. What does he mean here, to bless? I suppose the opposite of curse. Forgiving is not to condone their actions, but it does cleanse our own heart.

How many times have you just sat with someone going through a crisis and cried with them? Our tendency is to try and fix the situation (or at least that is my tendency). It is usually best to just “be” with them in their pain or in the joy. We need to realize we are all on a journey. The road will often be bumpy for some while at the same time smooth for others. We need to be mindful of other people and what they are going through.

How do we live in harmony with each other? What happens when we don’t have the same opinion? If you are in a relationship with someone who has a different view or value than you, find a way to co-exist. People don’t like to be overtaken by persuasion. Allow people to have their position and hopefully, they will agree to disagree. I’ve seen many friendships tainted because harmony is not sought.

Next, Paul gives us a couple of no-nos. “Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil.” Have you ever caught yourself thinking less of someone because of their position in life? Take, for example, a homeless person. Imagine that was you, down on your luck, looking in dumpsters for your next meal. They are people. They are loved by God. When we think of them as children of God just like us, our hearts are opened.

Evil for evil. Revenge. It’s a nasty trap. Who benefits? Later in this passage, Paul gives us the answer. “Overcome evil with good.” Have you heard the phrase “kill them with kindness”? I have often done that when cornered or challenged by someone trying to bring evil into our relationship. I may have been known to go overboard on that a little. I can only pray my kindness helped soften an otherwise hard heart.

When we’re tempted to take revenge in a situation, we need to remember this verse. God is the one who has the final say. He knows the truth. For it is written, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay.” Isn’t there a great sense of peace knowing God has your back?

I’d like to close with this one. “Live at peace with everyone.” Doesn’t that kind of sum it all up. Our relationships are so important. How people view us and how we relate to others will really set the tone for our day. If we get up grumpy and snap at everyone we encounter, who benefits? Are we reflecting the goodness our creator has put inside us?

We have a choice each day. If we look back at verse 1 and 2 at the beginning of Chapter 12, a great summary of the whole chapter. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” How will we be seen in the world? Will we have a smile on our face and a kind word to share? Will we go out of our way to make a friend’s day? What will you do today to strengthen or mend a relationship?

Let’s pray. Lord, I thank you for this reminder and the encouragement you have given me through Paul’s words. You want for us to rely on you and to do good in this world. May I see others through your eyes, remembering you love them. Even those who are unlovely, help me to be a blessing to them today. Guide my steps and fill my mouth with good. Clear away any judgmental thoughts that might creep in. I want to be a better steward of all your blessings today than I was yesterday. In Jesus’ name. Amen.