For the past few months, I have had the opportunity to help lead out the Exchange Ladies’ Small Group. This group varies in ages from 18-25. It is something that has stretched me as a leader and is something that I am enjoying. I get the opportunity to dive further into God’s Word with a great group of young ladies. This week, I am teaching a lesson on doing good to others. As I dove in further to this topic it was talking about doing good to those who hurt you. I always say the Lord has a funny sense of humor because this is something I struggle with. I have a hard time being compassionate towards someone, especially if my feelings are hurt. The Lord used this lesson to let me know that He is the one who goes before me and gives me the strength to do good to others even if I feel that I can’t.
He is the only one who can give comfort and help when conflict occurs. He can give the strength to do good to those who hurt us. Jesus was mocked and hurt constantly, yet He showed love and compassion to everyone. It’s a good reminder that we can call on Him when conflict occurs.
I hope that these verses are a reminder that He gives us the strength to be good to others, regardless of what’s done to you.
“Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another;
love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil
or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing,
knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.”
1 Peter 3:8-9
“And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good?
But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake you are blessed.
And do not be afraid of their threats, not be troubled. But sanctify the Lord God
in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks
you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers,
those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.
For it is better if it is the will of God to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.”
1 Peter 3:13-17
After reading these verses, I have found comfort in the fact that the Lord comes to my defense. He is the one who gives me the strength when conflict occurs. He says it is better to have compassion, rather than repaying evil with evil. I love that we can go to Him when these difficulties occur in our lives. He sees the suffering and sees our pain. I love the last line of verse 17. “It is better if it is the will of God to suffer for doing good than for doing evil”. This is such a good reminder that when someone hurts us to not lash out because we are in pain. It is far better to have compassion and love because that’s what God calls us to do.
Prayer Points: Please pray over these requests:
· God, I ask that You give comfort and help when conflict occurs.
· God, I ask that You give me strength to do good when others hurt me.
· Help me to show Your love and compassion daily.
· God, please provide reconciliation to broken relationships.
· Help me to live my life fully trusting in Your plan.
Dear Father,
Thank You for Your goodness. Thank You for going before me and giving me the strength to do good to others when I feel that I can’t. I pray that You give me comfort when conflict occurs. Help me to have a compassionate heart to those who hurt me. I pray that You would reconcile broken relationships. I pray for wisdom and strength in every situation. Please God give me a boldness to proclaim Your name and live my life fully trusting in Your plan.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Your Friend,
Stephanie Madore
Comments