August 7
The Blessings
of Obedience
Romans 12:17-18
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Daily Steps
After embracing the ultimate source of peace—The God of peace (Day 219)—the new believer must remember the practical, daily steps required to maintain that peace in an imperfect world. This passage provides the essential guide for relational tranquility through obedience.
The peace in this guide is found in active righteousness and careful conduct:
The Command to Restrain: The instruction is clear: "Do not repay anyone evil for evil." This is an act of self-control (Day 183) that rejects the world's standard of retribution. It leaves the final justice to The God of peace, freeing you from the burden of seeking vengeance.
The Call to Integrity: We are commanded to "Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody." This emphasis on carefulness calls for high integrity in all public and private conduct (Sincere Love, Day 217). Living rightly prevents unnecessary conflict and scandal, which secures social peace.
The Standard for Peace: The final instruction is the goal of all Christian living: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." This acknowledges that complete peace may not be possible (because it involves others' choices), but it sets the absolute standard for your responsibility. Fulfilling your responsibility secures relational peace with God and man.
Your final peace is secured by active obedience. Maintain relational tranquility by restraining from vengeance, maintaining integrity, and living at peace with everyone—as far as your effort allows.
Reflective Question
Is there someone in your life with whom you are not currently living at peace? What is one specific, obedient action you can take today to not repay evil for evil and fulfill your responsibility to restore peace?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to seek revenge and allow conflict to steal my peace. I pray for the strength to not repay anyone evil for evil and to be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.
Help me to fulfill my responsibility to live at peace with everyone, as far as it depends on me. Secure my final peace today through my active obedience to Your commands. Amen.
