Episode 174

TODAY’S READING:

If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides so that in all things, God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen

1 Peter 4:11

 

This verse is powerful, almost like a prayer we should pray every day to remind us when to speak and when to listen.  It is so relevant to all ages too—no matter where you find yourself. In high school, college, in the middle of raising a family, or helping your children raise theirs. Everything that we do shall be done with Jesus in mind.

 

Yesterday someone asked me what the word peacemaker meant. I think this very verse speaks directly to that definition.

 

We are peacemakers. Meaning when we speak, we do so as one who speaks the very words of God. Jesus was known as the Prince of Peace. He was peace; his very essence was peace. Peace means listening without imposing personal opinions. It means serving without selfish ambition.

 

This is what this verse is saying. When we speak, we must do so as if God himself were speaking. When we serve, we shall do so by His strength. This way, everywhere we go, and in everything we do, people should feel something different about you.

 

They should ask themselves, “Why are they so graceful? Why do they help others? What makes them so joyful” Everything we do should be so intertwined with the way Jesus lived that it would be no surprise when someone asks if you believe in Jesus.

 

PRAYER

Jesus, we want to be more like you. We want to be better about listening to others rather than imposing our own opinions and agendas. We want to be better about serving others rather than looking for selfish gain. We ask that you give us the patience, the strength, and the wisdom to do so. It is in your holy name that we pray, Amen!