"Let there be understanding among you. Do not be arrogant, but show humility. Do not exalt yourself!" (Romans, Ch. 12, Verse 16*)
While I was growing up, I loved playing the guitar. Though I was good at playing an instrument, it wasn't the same with singing. I remember enrolling in lessons with a vocal coach and trying to master the art of singing. Every week, as the teacher set the notes, she challenged my voice by pressing keys up and down the piano. I longed to hear the approving words: "That's right, you hit every tone in that octave." And I dreaded: "It's too flat" or "It's too sharp."
Learning to sing was a challenge. It not only took me out of my comfort zone but also required constant practice. My voice had to become flexible and adapt to the songs I was singing.
In the Epistle to the Romans, the Apostle Paul tells us to live in harmony with others. However, it is not always easy. When I think of all the people I've met over the years, there are those who are extremely difficult to harmonize with. But, as Christians, we are called to do just that—to love others even when it seems impossible.
Today I pray for the Lord to help me love others no matter how difficult it may be. With a humble heart, I will respond to rudeness with love, in my desire to please God with a harmonious song.
Link to the original article: https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals/en-2023-09-14
* Bible quotations are from The Bible, New Translation from the Original Languages © Bulgarian Bible Society 2013