But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded (2 Chronicles 15:7). 

DAILY DEVOTION, February 5, 2022

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited (Romans 12:16).

Paul speaks plainly in this text. There are all kinds of people in the world. Some are important, well-known people.  We like to say, “I know so-and-so.” Like the pastor who bragged, “We have three physicians in our church.” I guess that is supposed to make us believe it is a superior church since such important people attend. I have boasted that I personally met Dr. R.C. Sproul and have a book signed by him. (He is a well-known theologian). I guess that makes me a better pastor. Or does it?

Paul cautions us against pride. We are to live in harmony with all, not avoiding those of “low position.” There are people in our lives who are poor, unimportant, ordinary folks. We may tend to pay little attention to such people. We prefer to drop names, like the news commentator who constantly reminds us that he is a personal friend of the President. I once waved to President Reagan as he drove down Eldorado Street in Decatur, IL. Does that make us friends?

As Christians, we are to live in harmony with all, even those of “low position.” After all, Jesus has a name that is above every name, yet He condescended to die for us. We are certainly of a “low position” compared to Jesus. Let’s follow His example and not avoid those we regard as “inferior.” Jesus loves them, and so should we.

Father in heaven, out of Your love and mercy, you reached out to me in the person of Your Son and redeemed me, an unworthy sinner. Help me to live in harmony with all, even those I may regard as unimportant, of “low position.” In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.