We live in an age where division and violence seem to touch every corner of the world. Some individuals have taken it upon themselves to act as judge and executioner, killing those whose ideas or behavior they deem evil—and disturbingly, others justify these actions. But this is not righteousness; it is the work of the demonic.
The ongoing cycles of death and retribution we witness are not in humanity’s best interest—they are strategies of forces beyond the human realm. (See Ephesians 6:12)
The devil has no ideology other than to oppose God and destroy human life. When we attack or consume one another—whether in words or in deeds—we are doing the enemy’s work. As Christians, we are called to be led not by the god of this age (the devil), but by the Spirit of Christ. And Proverbs 3 gives us powerful guidance to follow:
“Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck,
Write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and a good reputation
In the sight of God and man.” (Proverbs 3:3–4 NASB)
This advice is both simple and profound. As followers of Christ, we are called to tell the truth and treat even our opponents with kindness. Can you imagine kindness and truth as precious jewelry worn around your neck, or as sacred words etched on your heart? What a beautiful image—one that reminds us to confront every interaction with both truth and love.
This balance takes courage, conviction, and compassion.
But why is this difficult combination the responsibility of Christians?
Because Jesus came into a world where every person stood as an enemy of God. His mission was reconciliation—to bring peace between God and humanity. Though many have refused this peace, the calling of Christ’s followers remains the same: to carry on His ministry of reconciliation. We live with the hope that those who oppose Christ might one day become His friends and followers.
Last month, I wrote about spiritual warfare based on Ephesians 6 (read that post here). The apostle Paul reminds us that our real enemies are not other human beings, but evil spiritual forces that have deceived many. Our battle is not to destroy others, but to win them—through love and the spiritual truth we proclaim.
What are your thoughts on how we can live out this ministry of reconciliation?
Let’s reflect and walk together in truth and kindness.
Photo by Palden Gyamtso on Unsplash
If all humanity would apply “The Golden Rule” of morality, many of life’s problems would be resolved. The rule is simple, yet profound, “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law, and the Prophets.” Matt 7:12 NASB1995
Amen! We need constant reminding to make that a habit.
One way I think we can live out our lives of reconciliation is thru prayer. One example of prayer is Matthew 6:9-13. We must be intentional living out God’s will not our. We must read God’s word but most importantly, apply God’s word and then, repeat, repeat, repeat.
Agreed. Intentionally living out God’s will is it.
We have to get serious about Christ’s ministry of reconciliation. That requires us to see people as Christ sees all of us and convey his sacrifice and love for all people. He loved us and died to save us. We must truly know him and die to ourselves daily allowing Christ to rule our thoughts, behaviors and lifestyle though reading, learning and acting on what the bible calls us to do. We must have a relationship with God to follow Christ and draw others to him by our example of what Christ is like 2Corinthians 3:3 we must show we are a letter from Christ to everyone .
Yes, then the Holy Spirit will be ruling in our hearts!
I love Proverbs 3:3-4 & 1John 4:7-11. But loving these scriptures is not enough. We must practice, practice, practice what God is telling us to do. And what I mean about practice is reading God’s word and applying it to self. It starts with each of us. Make application to self. Live outloud the scriptures daily.
Application to self is the key. Thank you for your comment, Mary.