As I am writing this devotion, I am reflecting upon a call I received from a servant of God who acknowledged that after many years, he was able to forgive his father. His story resonated with me because it took me many years to forgive my father. God touched my heart and caused me to know that I could not live in strife or truly experience His love, with anger and resentment in my heart. I was convicted! And, because of that, not only did I seek forgiveness I was set free. I would argue that countless people who live everyday seeking revenge, living with angry and in strife. Before you read further, if there is something in your heart that is not pleasing unto God, ask God to give you strength to remove it. Do not allow another day to pass with you living outside of His will. Let it go and experience true freedom. The scripture reference is II Timothy 2:24.

“A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people.”

In this deep and loving passage of scripture, we read that an approved worker for the Lord cannot be involved in strife and anger. They must not be unforgiving people or those always engaged in arguments. They must be patient, even with difficult people. The writer says that when they are able to live in peace and harmony, they escape the devil’s trap. The devil takes great delight when we live in resentment, evil and hate. We cannot honor God when our hearts are hardened. It is tragic that even in times of death, families argue, bicker, quarrel and hold resentment for the rest of their lives. Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Learn to live in peace with everyone: yourself as well.