22nd September 2025

Friends And Enemies

If it is possible, as much as depends on you,

live peaceably with all men.

Romans 12:18  

Today's Bible Reading: Romans 12:17–21.

It may seem odd that Paul tells his readers to “do what is right in the sight of all men” (v 17), especially since “everyone” includes unbelievers (v 14 & 20). Paul is drawing from the teachings of Jesus, challenging us to treat all people well, regardless of how they treat us (Matthew 5:39 & 44).

But that involves having “regard” or being “careful,” as Paul puts it (v 17)—considering our actions carefully so as not to jeopardise the integrity and beauty of the gospel. Throughout his letters, Paul asks believers in Jesus to live well before the unbelieving world so that, in doing so, the changed lives of His followers can bear witness to His worthiness (1 Timothy 3:7).

It may feel unnatural to repay evil with kindness, but in doing so we follow in the footsteps of Jesus Himself, who gave Himself in our place while we were still his enemies (Romans 5:8).

To live in peace with everyone may not always be possible (after all, Paul does say “if”). But our responsibility as believers in Jesus Christ is to allow His wisdom to guide our living (James 3:17-18) so that we engage those around us as peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). What better way could there be to honour the Prince of Peace?

Prayer:  Loving Father, I was Your enemy, and You called me friend. Enable me to be a peacemaker so I can show that same grace to others. In the name of the Prince of Peace, I ask. Amen.

21st September 2025

Spiritual Growth

My brethren, I could not speak to you as to spiritual people

but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ.

1 Corinthians 3:1  

Today's Bible Reading:  Colossians 1:9-14.

Some people have received Christ but have never reached spiritual maturity. They have been in church all their lives, and yet they have never become mature Christians. They are still considered “spiritual children” and “babes in Christ.” They know little Scripture. They have little desire to pray, and bear few of the marks of a Christian in their daily living. To say, “I will resolve to do better, I will muster all my will power and revise my way of living,” is noble, but futile. A corpse could as well say, “I will-through sheer effort-rise out of this coffin and be a living man again.” You need a power outside yourself. You cannot get over the habits and chains that are binding you. You need outside help. You need Christ.

The Bible tells of a bridge of faith which reaches from the valley of despair to the high hills of glorious hope in Christ. It tells us where we are, but beyond that-it tells us where we could be in Christ. Now, of course, you will not be completely mature until you are in the presence of Christ, but if you are a Christian, then you should be growing every day.

Prayer:   Father, work through me this day, that I might be maturing as a Christian and come to know You better, that I might know Your perfect will for me. In Christ Jesus. Amen.

20th September 2025

Music Medicine

Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands!

Psalm 100:1  

Today's Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 16:14–23.

In biblical times, it was common for court musicians to be hired for reasons such as entertainment or religious ceremonies. In the case of king Saul in 1 Samuel 16, his attendants believed his mental torment would be eased by lyre music (v 16). Since David was a skilled lyre player as well as a warrior (v 18), he became both a musician and armour-bearer (the carrier of shield and weapons) for King Saul (v21-23).

When he was feeling tormented, King Saul would reach for a musical prescription. His attendants saw his lack of peace and suggested they find someone to play the lyre for him in the hope it would make him “feel well” (1 Samuel 16:16). They sent for Jesse’s son David, and Saul was pleased with him and asked that he stayed with him, “for he has found favour in my sight. ” (v 22). David played for Saul in his moments of unrest, bringing him relief from his anguish.

We may only just be discovering scientifically what God has known all along about how music can affect us. As the Author and Creator of both our bodies and music itself, He provided a prescription for our health that is readily accessible to all, regardless of the era in which we live or how easy it is to visit a doctor. Even when there is no way to listen, we can sing to God in the midst of our joys and struggles, making music of our own (Psalm 59:16; Acts 16:25).

Prayer:  Father, thank You for creating music and using it to soothe my heart and mind during times of struggle. In Christ's name. Amen.