Romans 12:17

Living In Love

¹⁶ Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty [conceited, self-important, exclusive], but associate with humble people [those with a realistic self-view]. Do not overestimate yourself. ¹⁷ Never repay anyone evil for evil. Take thought for what is right and gracious and proper in the sight of everyone. ¹⁸ If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

In the Sight of God

What is Good

That Which Is Good

No

Proverbs 20:22

Do not say, “I will repay evil”;
Wait [expectantly] for the Lord, and He will rescue and save you.

Matthew 5:39

But I say to you, do not resist an evil person [who insults you or violates your rights]; but whoever slaps you on the right cheek, turn the other toward him also [simply ignore insignificant insults or trivial losses and do not bother to retaliate—maintain your dignity, your self-respect, your poise].

Romans 12:19

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for God’s wrath [and His judicial righteousness]; for it is written [in Scripture], “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

Romans 14:16

Therefore do not let what is a good thing for you [because of your freedom to choose] be spoken of as evil [by someone else];

1 Thessalonians 5:15

See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek that which is good for one another and for all people.

1 Peter 3:9

and never return evil for evil or insult for insult [avoid scolding, berating, and any kind of abuse], but on the contrary, give a blessing [pray for one another’s well-being, contentment, and protection]; for you have been called for this very purpose, that you might inherit a blessing [from God that brings well-being, happiness, and protection].

1 Corinthians 6:6-7

but instead, brother goes to law against brother, and that before [judges who are] unbelievers?

1 Corinthians 13:4-5

Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant.

2 Corinthians 8:20-21

We are taking precaution so that no one will [find anything with which to] discredit us in our administration of this generous gift.

Philippians 4:8-9

Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart].

Colossians 4:5

Conduct yourself with wisdom in your interactions with outsiders (non-believers), make the most of each opportunity [treating it as something precious].

1 Thessalonians 4:12

so that you will behave properly toward outsiders [exhibiting good character, personal integrity, and moral courage worthy of the respect of the outside world], and be dependent on no one and in need of nothing [be self-supporting].

1 Thessalonians 5:22

Abstain from every form of evil [withdraw and keep away from it].

1 Timothy 5:14

So I want younger widows to get married, have children, manage their households, and not give opponents of the faith any occasion for slander.

Titus 2:4-5

so that they may encourage the young women to tenderly love their husbands and their children,

1 Peter 2:12

Keep your behavior excellent among the [unsaved] Gentiles [conduct yourself honorably, with graciousness and integrity], so that for whatever reason they may slander you as evildoers, yet by observing your good deeds they may [instead come to] glorify God in the day of visitation [when He looks upon them with mercy].

1 Peter 3:16

And see to it that your conscience is entirely clear, so that every time you are slandered or falsely accused, those who attack or disparage your good behavior in Christ will be shamed [by their own words].