Romans 12:12,21 Rejoice in hope, endure in suffering, persist in prayer. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
As I prayed this morning, my initial focus was for my family. There is nothing wrong with that although my thoughts were “self” centered. As I opened my heart to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, my prayer began changing from my concerns to God’s concerns. How can I serve Him by serving others during this time? Suddenly, I realized how empowering this transition in mindset can be. It completely changes how God’s people can see themselves in any time of need.
Romans 12 guides us away from having a self-oriented focus to a heart that beats for the good of others. The following is a simplified version:
Begin by recognizing we are to offer our lives completely to God in service. Transition from self-will to God’s perfect will: “What can I do for You?” (vs 1-2)
Each person has gifts and abilities. “What are my gifts and how can I use them to serve others?” (vs 3-8)
Worldly compassion falls short of accomplishing God’s will. “I need You – empower me with Your supernatural love for others.” (vs 9-11)
Actions (vs 13-20)
- share with those in need
- bless others when you feel like cursing or complaining
- empathize in this way: rejoice with those rejoicing and weep with those weeping
- let His love push you out of your social comfort zone and associate with everyone
- live in peace with everyone
- if wronged, leave it in the hands of God
- repay those who wrong you with blessings and acts of kindness
Daily we receive negative news and comments. Feeling helpless is paralyzing, but we were not given a spirit of fear. Romans 12 brings us back to the reality that we are His servants. This transformation from self-oriented to God-oriented is empowering. To get there, we must let go and trust in His ways. We must daily renew our minds then take action. “Rejoice in hope, endure in suffering, persist in prayer. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
I am Your servant. Help me accomplish Your good will today!