Romans 12:16
“Live in harmony with each other. Don’t become snobbish but take a real interest in ordinary people. Don’t become set in your own opinions.” J.B. Phillips Translation
“Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. AKJV Version
“Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody.” The Message
Live in Harmony, Be of the same mind. These instructions from Paul do not mean that we are all to think alike, have the same opinions, uniformity of thought. But what is greatly missing in today’s world is respect, empathy for another person’s opinion and thoughts on any matter. A transformed Christian is not to argue with, be negative about, talk about or gossip about, or not associate with someone that believes different than you. We need to Listen to the other opinion with respect in our body language, tone of voice and with Love.
The next part speaks directly to those of us who think we are special. We have been given a special message, we are more intelligent, and God has blessed us with more knowledge. We are not to think more highly of ourselves than we should. We are to be very humble and always consider friendship with anyone of any race, social standing, economic standing and sexual persuasion. Each person is special to God; we hold no special place in God’s heart that is ahead of anyone else.
The next part is a warning against thinking we have all the knowledge and are again special. “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3. NIV. This verse speaks directly to all of us. God still has things to reveal to each of us, no matter our standing in life. You are never going to stop learning for eternity.
If we allowed ourselves to be transformed into this type of person, it would be the start of a whole new world of peace.
Take time today to revisit Romans 12:3-8,
You are called to live in this world and yet be not of this world. Be Salt or a Light today to everyone God sends your way.
Prayers for All
Larry