Do what is honorable

 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.

Romans 12:17 ESV

Repaying evil for evil never works does it? When we start playing that game everyone involved loses. The situation spirals out of control and effects many innocent by-standers. Payback never settles an issue. There is a reason Paul says not to repay evil with evil. He wants the church to be different than the world. He wants to show Christian behavior to be different than that of the world. Fighting like that within the body of Christ brings reproach on the whole body.

When you look at the second half of the verse you see what Paul wants from Christians, thoughtful and honorable behavior. He wants his readers to think before they react. He wants them to give some thought to what their actions may be and how they will appear to “everyone”. What ever behavior is exhibited within the church is on public display. The world is watching and if they see the church acting in the same way or even worse than those in the world do, it is a disgrace to our Lord.

We as Christians must think before we act in any given situation, because we represent the Kingdom of God to the world. Today, let's give thought to what is honorable and do what is honorable in the sight of all. Let us learn to forgive as we have been forgiven.

© 2012 Leo J. Woodman