March 2 | Proverbs 10:12
“Hatred stirs up controversy, but love covers over all offenses.” (Proverbs 10:12)
In the 60s and 70s, people were saying, “Make love not war.” People meant different things by it, but the general message is good. We live in a culture where we must be careful what we say. Every little thing is politicized, abused, and taken out of context.
As a Christian, you must never abuse and misuse what people say. Integrity must be your highest standard. To have integrity, your inside and outside must be the same. What you believe in your heart you must also say and do. You must not doublespeak or be double minded.
There is a lot of strife in our nation today. People are rioting, destroying property, crucifying Christians and everyone they disagree with, race baiting, and a host of other dividing violences. But you are different. You walk in God’s love, and are hard to offend.
Jesus teaches us to walk the extra mile with our enemies, to unconditionally love them, to not judge others, and to put up with trials, suffering, and persecution from this world for the sake of Christ. We walk a tight rope and try to be balanced.
Action Step: Do your best with the help of the Spirit to not be offended by others. Love your enemies and pray for them. Represent Christ by speaking and acting with truth and love. Share the truth in love.
Lord Jesus, I walk between hate and violence in my nation. I want to be salt and light, to honor You in everything I say and do. Give me Your wisdom and grace to speak the truth in love. Help me to show Your love to a culture that hates You.
