Today's Verse: 1 Peter 3:8

Monday, September 13, 1954

Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.
— 1 Peter 3:8

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Unity and harmony are no accident! They happen because of intention and submission. But more than just states of being, they are commanded by God. How do we have unity and harmony? Peter reminds we must have three commitments in our "church" lifestyle - 1) actively share the sorrows and concerns of those who grieve; 2) love each other just like a healthy family loves and values each member; and 3) show compassion rather than arrogance as we deal with the failures of others that hurt us, recognizing that we are vulnerable to sinning and hurting those we love, too.

My Prayer...

Father, I confess that I have let my own over-sensitive self be wounded and have reacted with pettiness when my brothers and sisters in Christ have not treated me as I felt I deserved. I know Jesus was treated so rudely and shamefully by those he created and so I shouldn't be surprised when things don't always go well for me. But Father, please help me to know when to challenge those who wound me with a loving confrontation and when to just ignore the barb and find a way to minister to them because of some deeper wound has crippled them in their life. Father, let me be an instrument of your peace, harmony, grace, and unity. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

4 Related Resources by Heartlight

Welcome to Harmony
Illustration of 1 Peter 3:8
Inspirational illustration of 1 Peter 3:8 -- Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.
Love Is Not a Brick
Article by Rubel Shelly
Who would go first among the religions in showing honor to the other? Rubel Shelly talks about world religions, love, respect, honor, and violence.
Unjust Suffering
Devo: A Year with Jesus
"Dear Disciple, Life sometimes is not fair. If you have any doubts about that, just remember what you celebrate when you take part in Communion. My..."
Our Healing Strength
Article by Phillip Morrison
How do we look beyond the horizon of our own earth-bound circumstances? Phillip Morrison writes about the weather in Texas and the reminder that we need to look beyond the horizon of our own circumstance and remember the promise, hope, redemption, and healing of God.

Illustration

Illustration of 1 Peter 3:8 — Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Monday, September 13, 1954

Quotemeal
A daily dose of Christian quotes to inspire and encourage.
Quote by Charles Swindoll:
"Few things are more infectious than a godly lifestyle. The people you rub shoulders with everyday need that kind of challenge. Not prudish. Not preachy. ..."
Passion for Praise
A daily passage of Scripture emphasizing praise to our God.
'What Mighty Praise' (Ps. 65:1-4)
"What mighty praise, O God, belongs to you ... We will fulfill our vows to you, for you answer our prayers. All of us must come to you. Though we are....."
Spiritual Warfare
A daily devotional about God's power for our battles.
'Under Slanderous Attacks I Trust in You!'
"I am constantly hounded by those who slander me, and many are boldly attacking me. But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. I praise God for...."
Praying with Paul
Features the apostle Paul's writings turned into daily, powerful prayers.
'Boasting in Weaknesses' (2 Co. 11:6-10)
"Dear Father, whose power is made perfect in weakness, Even though certain things are true, please keep me from saying them if they might be perceived..."

About This Devotional

Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

More Today's Verse