Key Verse: "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."
- Romans 12:18 KJV
The most persistent problem believers and unbelievers face on a daily basis is our inability to get along with people. Seems we are all struggling to just tolerate most of the the people we are around on a daily basis. It does not have to be this way. The book of Proverbs provides us with the secret to getting along with people and having true friends.
Proverbs 15:1 provides guidance on how to handle conflicts and disagreements. It says, "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger." When someone is angry with us, our natural instinct is to return the anger and lash out at them. This verse encourages us to respond gently and calmly in difficult situations, as a soft answer can often de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict. By choosing our words carefully and responding with kindness, we can maintain peaceful and harmonious relationships with others.
Proverbs 16:7 further emphasizes the importance of living in a way that pleases God and others. It states, "When a man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him." This verse teaches us that when we align our actions and attitudes with God's will, we can foster peace and harmony even in challenging relationships. It reminds us that our behavior and attitudes can influence how others perceive us, and that living a life pleasing to God can help resolve conflicts and bring peace.
Proverbs 11:17 reminds us that showing mercy to others is beneficial to our soul, while being cruel will bring negative consequences on our life. The verse says, "The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh." This verse highlights the importance of
mercy and compassion. When we show kindness and mercy to others, we not
only benefit them but also ourselves. Cruelty, on the other hand, brings
trouble and distress. By cultivating a merciful heart, we can improve
our own well-being and those around us.
Proverbs 18:24 teaches us about the importance of showing genuine friendship. It states, "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." This verse reminds us that true friendship is not just about having many acquaintances but about being a friend who is loyal and supportive, even closer than a brother. It also highlights the importance of being a reliable and kind friend to those around us, as this can lead to deeper and more meaningful relationships.
Applying These Verses in Our Lives
- Be Friendly: Make an effort to show kindness and friendliness to those around you. Smile, offer a helping hand, and be genuinely interested in others' lives. This can open doors to deeper and more meaningful relationships.
- Choose Your Words Wisely: Before speaking, consider the impact your words might have. Aim to use gentle and encouraging language, even in challenging situations. This can help to de-escalate conflicts and promote understanding.
- Seek God's Guidance: Pray for wisdom and guidance in your interactions with others. Ask God to help you live in a way that pleases Him, and trust that He will work in your life to bring peace and reconciliation.
- Show Mercy and Compassion: Cultivate a heart of mercy and compassion. Be quick to forgive and slow to judge. By showing kindness and understanding, you can create a more loving and supportive environment for everyone.
Getting along with others is not always
easy, but with the wisdom found in Proverbs and the guidance of the Holy
Spirit, we can build stronger, more meaningful relationships. By being
friendly, choosing our words wisely, seeking God's guidance, and showing
mercy and compassion, we can create a more harmonious and loving
community. May the Lord bless you as you strive to get along with others
in a way that honors Him.
