Blessed to be a blessing to others
Blessed to be a blessing to others
Finally, all of you be like-minded and sympathetic, love one another, and be compassionate and humble, not paying back evil for evil or insult for insult but, on the contrary, giving a blessing, since you were called for this, so that you may inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-9 CSB
In this new section, continuing on the theme of relationships, Peter now shifts from married couples to the church (“all of you”) and how we all should interact with one another. “To be like-minded” can be translated as to “live in harmony,” which is displayed in church life. As we are unified by Christ, we should be seeking out His will, which will lead us to be like-minded. We will still have differences of opinions since we all have different personalities. For example, Paul and Barnabas had a sharp disagreement which led to them parting ways temporarily, but they still planted churches wherever they went, continuing to serve the Lord (Acts 15:36-41). We have different gifts, which leads us to be able to do what other members may not. In that same mindset, we should have an attitude of humility and ask for assistance from another member who may be gifted where we are not. God wants Christians to be governed by the mind of Christ, so that differences do not divide but rather enrich the church. Therefore, he exhorts the believers to live in harmony with one another. Next, Peter tells us to be “sympathetic,” acting on the understanding of another’s feeling; “love one another,” working as a team united by Christ’s love; “compassionate,” having a tender heart; and “humble,” to be selfless. Peter then says “not paying back evil for evil or insult for insult.” Within our human nature, we have the tendency that when we are slighted, we retaliate; hence, Jesus telling us to love our enemies and turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:38-48). Instead, we are called to “[give] a blessing.” This can be through praying for them, forgiving them, and helping them with whatever resources you may have, caring for them. In return, God sees your actions and promises a blessing, whether it be here on earth or in heaven. May we serve the Lord with our attitude towards each other and those around us, exhibiting the love He poured out for us onto others.
Blessings,
Isaac De Guzman
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