Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Romans 12:14-16, The New International Version

"Live in harmony with one another" Sounds easy enough while you are reading your bible, but when we begin to engage in our relationships throughout the day and things tend to start breaking down. The question that comes to our minds as we read this is, "how?" How can we live in harmony or as many translations say, "with one mind?" Let's see if we can answer this.

We do not have the ability to control anyone but ourselves. Our goal is not control, but a life that "harmonizes" with others. Like a song with three-part harmony, we listen to what the Lord is singing, find our own voice, and pray the third part (person) will come together.

Our role is to harmonize with Jesus and work at helping others find their voice. But what if they are singing out of tune? Love them. Forgive them. Serve them. What if they refuse to harmonize with you? We do our best to harmonize with them.

I am not talking about compromising our values or integrity. We are not called to "make nice." However, I know that we are called to be the difference makers. When we listen to others and seek to understand them first, we can then find ourselves coming together in the Lord.

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart