Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.

1 Peter 3:8

I Peter 3:8 describes the way we are to live in fellowship with all people.

We are to live in harmony with sympathy, compassion and humility. Scripture encourages us to do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Galatians 6:10) Earlier, Peter told the readers to live their lives before men abstaining from sin, and becoming an example to the unbeliever. Christ becomes a person with human hands and a human heart when we show His love by reaching out to others. What a privilege it is to share Christ with others and to love people where they are. This does not mean that as Christians we are to compromise our beliefs in any way. I Peter continues by exhorting us not to repay evil for evil or insult for insult. This is difficult to do, but that does not excuse us from being obedient to God’s Word.

Who today needs your sympathy, your compassion, your love? God’s Word is clear that you must reach out to those in need, especially to the family of believers. Ask the Lord to show you who needs you to come alongside them and be willing to go the extra mile to show them Christ’s love.

Heavenly Father,

I know that You are asking me today to reach out to (fill in the blank). I have been unwilling to do this up until now, but I realize that You are calling me to obedience. Help me to live in harmony with others, showing sympathy, compassion and humility. Help me to be more like You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen