Romans 12:9-18 (Various translations)
As I read, and re-read, and re-read, and looked at the Greek meanings of some of the words, I kept hearing “I put this stuff here for a reason… read it… learn it… live it.” So given that, I’m going to take different phrases from different translations to make a “checklist” of sorts on the how we are to live this life with each other.
- Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. (The Message)
- Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. (NKJV)
- Love one another with brotherly affection (ESV)
- Outdo one another in showing honor (ESV) / Practice playing second fiddle (The Message)
- Never be lazy but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically (NLT)
- Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. (ESV)
- When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. (NLT)
- Be inventive in hospitality. (The Message)
- Bless those who persecute you [who are cruel in their attitude toward you] (The Amplified Bible)
- no cursing under your breath (The Message)
- Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep. (ESV)
- Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody. (The Message)
- Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is honest and proper and noble [aiming to be above reproach] in the sight of everyone. (The Amplified Bible)
- If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (NIV)
What else really needs to be said except I have a REALLY long way to go… Some of these I’m doing OK in. Some of these – you would think – I’ve never seen before. It’s a love/hate thing. I love when these lists are put in there for us to grow into and I hate seeing how far short I fall. Thank you Lord that you love me anyway and that I can’t do any of it on my own. All I can do is surrender and allow Him to live these things through me (Gal 2:20).