The Weekly Word - A Devotion for the Week of May 29
Live at peace with one another.
It’s not easy to forgive those who have hurt you. You might think they don’t deserve your forgiveness because of the pain they inflicted on you, either intentionally or unintentionally. This verse tells us we must forgive others because God forgave us.
In verse 12, Paul said we must clothe ourselves, “with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Since the Lord chose us to be his people, we have the duty to treat those around us with love and kindness. This includes forgiveness.
In verse 13 Paul also said, “Make allowance for each other’s faults.” This doesn’t mean to brush people’s sins under the rug, but rather give grace when mistakes are inevitably made. Everyone slips up, so it’s reassuring to know that we serve a God who forgives us no matter what and urges us to do the same for others.
God wants us to live in peace with one another. Verse 15 said, “Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.” Our peace comes from Him, and He asks us to bring and show peace to others. We are members of one body of Christ, and we are asked to live in harmony with not only Christ followers but everyone.
Be thankful for his peaceful and loving heart and let that inspire you to show others grace and forgiveness.