Open His gifts…

 

As I pray for those who do not yet know Jesus, the Bible seems clear that one day He will speak to them, whether this day or on their death bed. I can share the gospel with them, but it is that ‘visit’ from God that will make the difference. I’m praying for them and know how important that my life matches my words. Integrity not hypocrisy:

Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. (1 Peter 2:12)

The rest of this NT book offers a description of honorable conduct. Some of it might surprise even God’s people. . . .  

Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 

Doing good is not about rigid rules as some might think. It means I’m to live in freedom but not use that to cover sinful selfishness. Instead, I’m to serve God and honor everyone, loving other Christians and fearing God. This includes honoring political leaders and respecting anyone in authority over me, no matter what they are like. The Lord says: “This is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God.”

This is being like Jesus, not retaliating, but trusting the Righteous Judge. It applies also to marriage. If hubby was not obeying the Lord, I’m to remain respectful with a gentle and quiet spirit. Husbands are to understand and honor their wives. This is so our prayers are not hindered by any selfish demands put on each other. 

In all of life, God asks for “unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.” This is about godly speech, doing good, and seeking peace. The eyes of the Lord are on me, and my obedience is important because it means He is open to my prayers. 

I’m not to fear those who ill-treat me, but honor Christ and “Be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” in a gentle and respectful manner.” It is better to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 

Jesus could return at any time. For that reason and for the sake of my prayers, I’m to be self-controlled and sober-minded, loving others, meeting their needs without grumbling, and serving them with the gifts and grace that God give. This is to glorify Him, not me.

I could be insulted for the name of Christ, but am blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon me. I must trust Him and do good, no matter what. I’m also to be humble in all this for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 

PRAY: Jesus, all this reminds me to humble myself for at the proper time, You will lift me up. I can cast all my anxieties on You, because You care for me. I can be sober-minded and watchful even though my adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking to devour me. I can resist You, firm in faith. I know others suffer too, and that after I suffer, You, the God of all grace who has called me to Your eternal glory, will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish me. All this is the Gift that came to a stable, died on a cross and now lives forever to bless all who trust You. Hear my prayers for others to know and receive the wonder of Your gift to them.