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December 1 And we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; when we are slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become as the scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now. 1 Corinthians 4:12,13. Paul is explaining the results of the new creation that we are. We appear in stark contrast to the world and its values. Often we are targets for ridicule—we are regarded as fools. And indeed we are fools for Christ’s sake. Only the new creation, modeled to be in the image of Christ, can bless those who revile us. How can we do this and be like Paul? Of course the secret is to see us in Christ. The new creation desires the attributes of Christ, and if we, by faith, accept this and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all that we do, we shall speak the words of wisdom that Paul has explained. We will endure persecution because Christ has already done so. When we are slandered we will find words of kindness for our attackers. We will be faithful in prayer to seek the proper words and actions that defy explanation by those who regard us as scum. And the result is that all praise goes to God. Lord, I admit that my first reaction to slander is often to attack with well-chosen words. Actually foolish words that model Adam rather than Christ. But the realization slowly sinks in that I have been set apart for a new expression of values—one that is unique to God and not man. I thank You for making all of this true. Today I claim this new creation for Your glory, Father. Let us walk together in a manner that the world cannot explain. Let Your love reign in all that I do. Thank You and Amen. |
