It is so easy to get caught up in the conversations of those who are pro-choice.
Be Kind and Compassionate
It even comes quickly to us to reciprocate the same temperament they use on us, whether we respond in that moment or we speak of them after to someone else. The common tendency for those who are pro-abortion is to throw insults or use false accusations and information, but at times, maybe we too have responded in the same form. However, as a representative of Jesus on the sidewalk, you must guard your mouth.
In Matthew, Jesus says, “but I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.”
What does loving our enemies (those who do not stand for life) look like?
Well, Proverbs says, “fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult. It is foolish to belittle one’s neighbor, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.” So instead, let us “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
I encourage you then, rather than using our mouths for useless words, let us make an effort to guard what we say and be intentional to speak in such a way that is a blessing rather than a curse. Let us use our mouth as an instrument to lift a praise to our good Father and for God to use to speak to others.
Like the Psalmist says, “May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice. Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds along with those who are evildoers.” (Psalm 141:2-4)
Today, remember to guard your mouth for His glory and praise. Let your heart be drawn to what is right and holy.
Devotional for Day 21Scripture: For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day and having done all, to stand. — Ephesians 6:12-13 Reflection: I am confounded to see how the battle over the issue of life is perceived more often in churches today as political rather than spiritual. Ironically, the enemy has used this twisted perception to silence many in the body of Christ. We must see the battle for what it is and we must daily “put on” the armor God has given us:Gird your waist with Truth (vs. 14) — Commit your emotions to believe truth and to speak truth, regardless of the repercussions.Put on the breastplate of Righteousness (vs. 14) — It will protect our hearts – the innermost springs of our beings – from all unrighteousness so evident in this fallen world.Shod your feet with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace. (vs. 15) — Preparation is vital if we are to be effective in God’s work.Taking the shield of faith (vs.16) — The Accuser will instill doubt, fear, and guilt. Faith acts as an invisible shield that deflects such false accusations.Taking the Helmet of salvation (vs.17) — A helmet protects the head, the brain and in turn our mind and thoughts. Satan hopes we will set aside divine revelation for human reasoning.Taking the sword of the Spirit (vs.17) — The Word of God, the only offensive weapon in this armor, was used by the Lord Jesus against Satan. The living Word is powerful and effective.Our armor is complete. We are ready to wage war, and the next verse tells us how, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit.” (vs.18) Prayer: Dear Lord, as you lead us into the spiritual battle of abortion may we be reminded that the battle is truly Yours. Thank you for hearing our requests for direction and protection. Thank you for the victory that is ours because of Your Son Jesus, amen. |
