All week long folks have been talking about American Independence because of when in the week the 4th of
July fell. One of the things that I really appreciated was an article that a historian wrote reminding us that the
new government that was established in our new country was not a democracy. We have what is called a
“republic” or a “democratic republic”. In a democracy the majority rules and everyone else has to bend to that
rule. He said that if you are looking for an example of a pure democracy, look at a lynch mob. Everyone in the
mob is bent on one thing and the person being dragged along is the only one dissenting. A republic is a form of
government that recognizes the majority opinion, but has respect for those who are in the minority. What that
does is that everyone is valued and everyone’s position is recognized. It is called respect for others. We live in
a society where others opinions or beliefs are allowed to be shouted down by the majority and the powerful. I
got to thinking about that and remembered a scripture that reminded me that we are to respect others and
recognize that they are people of worth as well, even if we don’t agree. The Apostle Peter wrote in his first
letter that we need to be ready to explain the hope we have in Jesus Christ when people ask us about it. But we
are cautioned to do that in a gentle and respectful way. Everyone is loved by God, everyone is valuable. That
doesn’t make them right, but we are to recognize all people as individuals loved by God and wanted by him for
his kingdom. So, remember in the coming days there will be lots of things we can disagree on with other
people. But when asked, we are called to tell them about the hope we have in Jesus Christ…and as we do that
and as we deal with them on any number of issues…we are to do that with gentleness and respect. Think about
what a wonderful world this would be if we had that kind of love that valued those who not only disagreed with
us, but even hated us. Don’t forget that the followers of Jesus are the ones to lead the way when it comes to
valuing people. We cannot agree with everyone’s opinions and lifestyles out there…but we can show them the
love and respect God has shown to us.
Here’s our Bible verse for today…
1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. (16) But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ.
Remember I’m praying for you!
PJ
Here’s our Bible verse for today…
1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. (16) But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ.
Remember I’m praying for you!
PJ