"Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone" (Romans 12:17-18)

As Christians we should be above reproach according to the world's standards. We should live at peace with one another and conduct our lives aiming for what is noble, honest and proper. Even though we cannot be responsible for others behaviors; as far as it depends on us we can live at peace with everyone.

This is accomplished in our lives by the transformation that occurs when we renew our minds to the word of God. Paul started out this chapter of Romans by encouraging us to no longer be conformed or poured into the mold of the world, but rather to be transformed into a new creation by renewing our minds to this truth ( Romans 12:2 ). This is the key to all of Paul's instruction. When we align our thoughts and philosophies to what the Bible says, then we will see these things manifest in our lives.

Paul reminds us in today's passage that we are not to repay for the evil done to us being careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. This does not mean that we should seek to please mankind; rather it means that we should live righteously according to God's principals in plain view of everyone. We should be fair and honest in all of our dealings. We should be above reproach in the sight of our peers. This comes about by knowing God's principals and instructions. The more we understand God's grace toward us, the more likely we are to also extend grace when wronged. The more we internalize God's faithfulness, righteousness and truthfulness, the more these principals will be evident in our lives. This happens supernaturally by renewing our minds to the Word of God and letting the new creation that exists on the inside seep out and exist on the outside.

The Christians life was meant to be lived this way. By understanding and applying the Word of God and relying on the Holy Spirit as our guide in all things. By living by the Spirit are hearts are set on what He desires ( Romans 8:5 ), so the natural result will be living at peace with one another and shining like stars in this dark world. Today, I pray that you evaluate your heart to see where it aligns with this truth. Get into the Word and enjoy the amazing things you will find. May your life be above reproach in the sight of everyone, amen!

"Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited" (Romans 12:15-16)

As believers we are to follow Christ's example of being willing to meet people where they are. Fully God, yet he humbled himself and stepped into humanity on our behalf. He gave up the glory of heaven to come and redeem mankind, born in the most humble way. He did not consider his royal position ahead of our need for him; he humbled himself and became obedient to death in order that we might experience firsthand the love of God.

In the same way, we are to have the mindset of Christ concerning those around us. We are to consider them above ourselves. Paul has given us plenty of instruction in Romans 12 on how to live in harmony with one another. In today's passage he reminds us that we should rejoice with those who rejoice and morn with those who mourn. This can only happen when we genuinely love and care for each other.  By showing interest and concern for others above our own need, we become invested in their lives. Doing so brings us to the point of being able to share with them in every circumstance. Rejoicing and mourning with them is a natural response to the love shared, this is why Paul started out by saying "love must be sincere" ( Romans 12:9 ).

To live in harmony with each other we have to be willing to associate with everyone. As believers, we should not be conceited or overestimate ourselves. We should not be exclusive or snobbish toward one another and we should always be willing to include and care for those around us. Jesus told the disciples "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all" ( Mark 9:35 ). This is the secret to getting ahead in life, putting others ahead of yourself and serving each other just as if you were serving the Lord. Jesus then took a child in his arms and went on to explain to them, "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me." ( Mark 9:37 ). Keeping this eternal perspective in mind will enable us to live in harmony with each other, rejoicing, mourning and caring for each other's needs just as if the Lord standing before us.

Today it is my prayer that you understand this wonderful truth and apply it to your life. May God bless you as you seek him and may he bring people into your path to be a blessing to, amen.