After reviewing what Christians should believe, Paul turns, in chapter 12 of Romans, to how that should transform their behavior. "Since we are all one body in Christ," he writes (in verse 5), "we belong to each other." These verses explain how awareness of that bond should reshape how we relate to each other—and to outsiders.

1. Can a person be courteous to another, avoid hurting his feelings, express interest in him, and still be less than genuine?
   
   
2. Do we honor some people for ulterior motives or honor all because they've been created in God's image, are our brothers and sisters in Christ, and uniquely contribute to His church?
   
   
3. What is your natural initial reaction when someone harms you? But how does Scripture (v. 14) call you to react?
   
   
4. How does conceit (v. 15) undermine unity?
   
   
5. How does developing empathy for others promote agape love?
   
   
6. Whose job is it (v. 19) to right wrongs? What does God know about the actions of others that I cannot?
   
   
7. How does meeting your enemy's needs conquer evil with good? How can forgiving actions lead to forgiving feelings?

Ask God to work in your heart so that you "do your part to live in peace with everyone."

⁹Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them. … ¹⁰Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.

¹⁴Bless those who persecute you. Don't curse them; pray that God will bless them. ¹⁵Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. ¹⁶Live in harmony with each other. Don't be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all!

¹⁷Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. ¹⁸Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. ¹⁹Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, "I will take revenge; I will pay them back," says the Lord.

²⁰Instead, "If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads." ²¹Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

Prayer for the Week

Teach me, Lord, to respond to the people you thrust into my life in ways that mature me, honor You, and build Your kingdom.

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