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).
The verse above is part of many scriptures with the subheading, “Love in Action”, in the New International Version of the Bible, Romans 12:9-21.
9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord.
12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.
18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
What the Apostle Paul has written to the Christians in Rome is self-explanatory.
It is also important to note that Paul lived under the oppressive Roman Empire’s governance and the persecution of the Jewish religious authority. It was the “martial law” regime of his time.
The fundamental principle for Christians is recognizing our fellow humans as equals, created in God’s image.
Suppose an individual chooses not to support your candidate in an election. In that case, it is essential to approach the situation with understanding and respect for their opinion rather than labelling or criticizing them.
Have you genuinely reflected on your efforts to share the profound and transformative truth with those around you, beginning with the message of Jesus Christ, who embodies the Way, the Truth, and the Life?
We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
1 Thessalonians 5:14
If you or your candidate are victorious in the campaign, remember to act with grace and kindness in your success.
Thus, whether you have lost or won, regardless of status, as Christians, we must put our love into action.
Let us draw inspiration from biblical wisdom. In a world of uncertainty and challenges, taking bold action in love is the most powerful way to create a meaningful impact.
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