TFTD: August 1st

Today’s the day when in 1914 the First World War erupted in Europe. Germany and Russia declared war against each other and the first German army units crossed into Luxembourg to prepare for the invasion of France. This marked the beginning of four horrendous years of fighting which resulted in the deaths of about 20 million people. You can’t help asking what fears and grudges and selfish ambitions could have fuelled such relentless conflict. And more importantly, how can we live at peace with one another? In Romans 12 the Bible gives us some practical advice which we can start putting into practice today:

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. 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.

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.