ROMANS 12
16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.– Romans 12:16-21
ROMANS 12 MORE GUIDELINES FOR CHRISTIAN LIVING
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
As you live for the Lord Jesus Christ, hunt down peace
Do not allow evil to shake your faith, but live under grace
Do not be haughty and think you are wise, engage with the lowly
When someone does evil to you, don’t avenge but forgive
The Lord will fight for you, you only need to be calm
If your enemy is hungry and thirsty, supply them
With all your strength, pursue righteousness and peace
Live in harmony with one another for the sake of Christ.
Is it possible for Christians to follow these guidelines that Paul stipulated for the believers in Rome? It sounds counter intuitive, doesn’t it? When we live in the culture and traditions of the world, these wouldn’t make sense. How can we love someone who hurts us or does evil to us? Why does this sound illogical? Because we are humans and we are by nature sinful. We automatically fend for ourselves, think highly of ourselves and fight back when we are hurt. How could we follow such a hard stipulation? It is not us who does it, but the Spirit in us who spurs us to do what is good and what is impossible for humans.
It is only possible because Jesus Christ sampled for us that it can be done. When he was rejected, he didn’t fight back or get angry. Instead, he spoke the truth and exposed their sins. Jesus was born of humble origins even though he was God to show us it can be done.
REFLECTION
· What among these requisites do you find hard to follow? Why do you think so?
