goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Friends or Enemies

By Linda Tancs

We’re taught to not only to do good to those who are good to us but also to do good to those who are disdainful toward us, discontented with us, hostile to our plans or who insult us (Luke 6:27-31). This is how we overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). There’s an additional benefit to this; namely, those who hurt us become, in a sense, our allies because the more we endeavor to be good to them, the less we suffer from self-pity, which is sinful (Romans 12:3). In the end, the good we show our adversaries provides an opportunity to increase our heavenly reward (Galatians 6:9), so they’re a better friend to us than we might otherwise think. 

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As part of FOOT FORWARD MINISTRIES (a teaching and speaking ministry), Go Forward in Faith represents faith-based meditations for personal and professional growth. Join the Facebook group @goforwardinfaith.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

The Christian Response to Bullying

By Linda Tancs

Bullying is defined as a repeated aggressive behavior where one person (or group of people) in a position of power deliberately intimidates, abuses or coerces an individual with the intention to hurt that person physically or emotionally. Bullying comes in many forms, and it’s not reserved for school-age children. Maybe you’ve experienced workplace bullying or unpleasant behavior while volunteering somewhere. Or maybe you’ve been bullied since childhood. Whatever the case, bullying is isolating, agonizing and unfair. The Bible doesn’t specifically address bullying, but it does tell us not to mistreat those who hurt us (Matthew 5:44-46). Bring love to the presence of hate (Romans 12:21). Lead by example; it might change a heart.

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As part of FOOT FORWARD MINISTRIES (a teaching and speaking ministry), Go Forward in Faith represents faith-based meditations for personal and professional growth. Join the Facebook group @goforwardinfaith.