Ephesians 4:29
September 20, 2024
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 20 SEPTEMBER
September 20, 2024
THE 20th OF SEPTEMBER
THE PURSUIT OF PEACE AND HOLINESS ALWAYS YIELDS REWARDS
“Pursue peace with everyone, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. Be mindful so that no one falls short of God’s grace, and no root of bitterness springs up to cause trouble, defiling many.” – Hebrews 12:14-15
Achieving peace within ourselves and in our relationships requires effort. Pursuing holiness is also a challenge, as it means living separately from worldly influences and striving to please God in order to reach heaven. God does not force His grace upon us; it is a gift. Once we accept it, we must extend that grace to others. If we choose to live in conflict and refuse to forgive, we will not be able to enter heaven.
When we are harsh toward others and fail to understand their mistakes, we take offense. If unresolved, this offense can turn into bitterness. A bitter heart leads to negative emotions and words. It’s difficult not to sin by gossiping or making negative remarks when we are upset with someone. By doing so, we spread our negativity to others. To avoid this, we must be quick to forgive and seek forgiveness if we want to be forgiven by our heavenly Father.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
Thank You, Lord, for the peace I find in You. When disagreements arise, help me remember the value of my peace, so that I choose to do what is necessary to maintain it. Father, please purify my heart, help me forgive quickly, seek forgiveness, and show grace to others as You have shown me. Guard my heart from offense, so that bitterness does not take root and cause harm to myself and others. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen
