Daily Devotion

Wednesday, February 11, 2026  

Today's Scripture
Romans 12:9–21

Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” No, “if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (NRSV)

Reading Paul’s letter and his teachings is both inspiring and daunting. His call for “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good” is clear and straightforward.

However, it becomes confusing to me when he asks us to “Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse.” To “Live in harmony with one another. Live at peace with everyone. If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.”

Following his teachings is definitely a tall order. When faced with evil, my response is to not nurture it. It is to summon the courage to challenge it. Yet Paul would have me do otherwise.

Prayer

Dear Creator God, in times when I feel challenged, help me to respond with love and patience. To put others before myself. To forgive those who slight me. And to promote a sense of peace and harmony with all. In your son’s name, we offer this prayer. Amen.

Written by Ed Miller, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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