No More Clutter

For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil. (1 Peter 3:12)

There is a very strong message in these words, but we can’t fully appreciate them without hearing what Peter wants us to do before we get to this point.  Yes, we are called to live righteously before God and it is great news to hear that through this He is attentive to our prayers.  First, let’s go back a few verses where Peter begins to share with us some important truths of how to completely enjoy a righteous life with the Lord.

“Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.” (vs. 8 )

Peter calls us to live in peace with each other.  This means that when there is a quarrel in the body of Christians, we need to take the time to mend it.  There should not be gossip or time to linger on quarrelsome behavior.  When you feel offended, hurt, or disappointed, take it to your brother/sister in Christ and mend the relationship.  Do not let time pass and create disharmony.  Be sympathetic with those who might have hurt you, those whom you might not understand, and those who are your family in Christ.  You are supposed to walk God’s love out every day, regardless of whether you feel like it or not.  Let your feelings follow your actions and you might just make some more friends.

“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”  (vs. 9)

It is often difficult to be kind to someone when they have just insulted you, but this is what God’s Word has commanded of us and we should rise to the challenge daily.  Do not look for your blessing in men for that is not where it will come from.  May you bless others when they hurt you and look to God for your blessing.  He will give you lasting peace, unbelievable joy, and irreplaceable love.

“Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.”  (vs. 10)

The Bible has some great verses about the tongue.  We all need to be very careful about our words and how we choose to use them.  Think before you speak and than think again.  Make sure the words you say are going to please your Heavenly Father, if they will not please Him, then don’t say them.  If you are unsure, then don’t open your mouth.  You can’t get in trouble, if your mouth isn’t open.  If for some reason your mouth opens and you proceed to say something that you know you were wrong to say, ask for forgiveness.  There are numerous times when I have had to quickly ask for forgiveness for things that I have said.  I certainly don’t want to leave a trail of hurt feelings, so I try to clean my mess up as soon as possible.

“He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.”  (vs. 11)

The message in this verse is clear.  If there is anything in your life that is keeping you from walking straight toward God, then it is time to surrender it.  It’s time to lay it down at the Lord’s feet.  You can hand in all of the clutter in your life for the treasure God has yet to reveal.  I promise it will be worth it.  May you seek peace and pursue it with all your heart!

“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer…”  (1 Peter 3:12)

The Lord is watching you and He does hear your prayers.  He desires to see you care about the relationship you have with Him and take it even one step further.  May every step you take be one more in your sweet, sweet journey with the Lord, your God!

Dear Father God, Thank You so much for caring about every step I take.  Thank You for being in the details of my life and for helping me love others, even when they aren’t always lovable.  I pray You will help my mouth and tongue be guarded to say good things.  My life is Yours and all that I am is Yours!

My Life is in Your Hands,