Peace Comes Through Obedience
If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. 1 John 33:17-18 (NIV)
This is true. We know this to be a fact. But…
Why does it take so long and what stands in our way? Being creatures of habit, we have different comfort zones. Personally, I do not like conflict or raised voices. I tend to avoid these whenever possible. My gut says, “Get out of there!” Yet I know that clearing the air helps us grow in ever-so-many ways.
However, this devotion is not about that kind of conflict! When the Holy Spirit prompts us to do something and we ignore or shy away from it, our belly feels like it is tied up in knots. Perhaps this is why we need to have frequent gut checks. What about those around us?
We’ve all had those moments when life happens, and we feel empathy for those affected. But how do we respond? Sometimes we sigh and whisper, “I don’t want to get involved in this. It’s none of my business.” The Holy Spirit says differently. It is not possible to show love to those in need if we are too self-absorbed. After all, we know that it’s all about me these days. Right?
Being obedient brings peace into our chaotic lives. Yet, we are often more concerned about how getting involved can chew up our precious time. The telephone calls that drag on forever. The casual meeting at Kohls when you hear their life’s story. The invitation to come for coffee. Some of you are already cringing because you know what I’m talking about. It’s that conflict in your gut—do I make an excuse, or do I show kindness and just listen? Am I truly interested or just putting on a good act of caring?
Listen to the Holy Spirit with your heart! In each situation, He may say something different. But know that the chaos and guilt will continue until you make it right and obey.
Obedience brings about Peace. His Peace!
Almighty God, You have shown us the way to have peace but You are perfect and we are not. Teach us to listen to the Holy Spirit and obey His biddings. Give us strength to stay on the right trail and not wander over to the path of avoidance. AMEN.