Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

It is not always possible to live for God and to live at peace with all men. But insofar as it is possible, we should strive to do so. We should never delight in conflict and controversy for its own sake but only engage in such when necessary and to defend the truth and live the truth. Christians should be characterized as “people of peace” who are willing to “get along with” others as long as that does not entail denying their God. Words are simply not enough. Begging forgiveness to save yourself or out of fear is not faith. Believing in the word of God and ACTING upon it, even when it is most difficult, is faith. The fruit of the spirit is faith (Galatians 5: 22-23) and God has always kept His faithful promises to us (Deuteronomy 7:9). As believers, we must honor God’s faith to us with our faith to Him.

You, Lord, have reconciled us to yourself, giving us your peace. And we know that in the world we shall have tribulation. But let us not be such as refuse to live in peace with others and create needless conflicts. Let our desire for peace with others be a testimony to them of a Spirit-led attitude.

When we are first initiated into the church as self-aware people, the carrot that is dangled in front of us is often the things that the Lord will provide for us; eternal paradise, deliverance from evil and unconditional love. Very rarely do new comers reflect on what is expected of us in return, and how simple it can be to fulfill those requirements.
The irony, of course, is that if each of us acted justly, loved mercy, and walked humbly, we would have eternal paradise, deliverance from evil and unconditional love for one another. Yet why is that reserved for the afterlife and not now?
We have free will so that these skills may be learned. That we can be sculpted by life’s lessons and the opportunities we are given to do good for one another, especially those that can do no good and need saving.
Does God ask too much of us? At times, it may seem impossible to live the way that He wants us to. But it is during those times it is the most important to live that way. It is then that we truly learn the patience, humility, and charity that we will take with us when we are in Heaven.
Is it really so difficult to love our neighbors? To act justly? To be humble? It isn’t hard to be a good person if that is your one goal.

O God, forgive me for the countless times that I have made others around me feel worse from my words, expressions, and actions. Please have the Holy Spirit flow through me, so that all will be touched by positivity when they come into contact with me. When times are challenging, I ask that You be my rock and refuge, so that I do not lash out and cause harm to any others. Remind me of the best example of all, Jesus Christ, for it is in His holy name that I humbly pray today. Merciful Lord, keeper of the faith, I aim to be more like you. I pray that I have the resolve to remain steadfastly faithful to you, in the light times and even in the darkest times. Your son, Jesus Christ, remained faithful and kept His promise to us, even when He was crucified, and I am eternally grateful for this sacrifice, heavenly Father! I humbly ask that You let me faithfully serve You today and forever, Amen Amen.