Examining Scripture:
“Be of the same mind one toward another.
Mind not high things,
but condescend to men of low estate.
Be not wise in your own conceits.
Recompense to no man evil for evil.
Provide things honest in the sight of all men.”
Romans 12:16-17
Evaluating Soil:
We’re often taught to strive for independence and individuality and are encouraged to think for ourselves. Look at our homes. They’re as different as we are. As uniquely created beings, we think and live in ways that distinctly represent who we are, what we do, and where our focuses are.
While our Creator made us in His likeness, He also included creative differences. Sometimes, we can use those differences to divide us and bring out the worse in us. We can become so confident in ourselves and our ways of living that we begin to behave in a superior manner toward others. This often causes us to treat people the way they treat us or to become dishonest in our dealings to get or maintain the upper hand.
This is not the way God wants us to be. God wants us to be of the same mind with Him and others, especially in our homes. We are to live like Him and for Him, and our homes should facilitate that.
Experiencing Seasons:
When my husband and I married, we were taught that we had become “one flesh” (as seen in Ephesians 5:31). It sounded so romantic and special. I cherished the thought that we would be one forever.
That was until the first time we had a disagreement and I realized that while we were one flesh we still had two minds and they weren’t always on the same page. That has been one of the hardest realities we have had to accept and adjust to. While we’re still learning, after all these years, to live with our differences, we have found that keeping God’s Word and ways as our compass makes aligning our minds and staying on track much easier.
Embracing Solace:
Solace is disturbed when division, disrespect, and dishonesty take residence in our homes. When we think more of ourselves than we ought to think, problems arise. We tend to treat others better or worse than intended when our thoughts aren’t in the right place.
When we’re of the same mind, in our homes, about our physical, spiritual, and material well-being, life is much more peaceful. Problems come when we get prideful and make our wants and goals the priority at the expense of our loved ones’ well-being
Enjoying Simplicity:
Homes should be united and used for the good of our families and others without being complicated with pride, conceit, arrogance, evil responses, and dishonesty. Unity and respect brings simplicity and security.
Employing Solutions:
Our homes should never be just about us, our desires, and agendas. Nor should we place ourselves above or below someone else. Presenting holy lives and homes to God requires Godly behaviors. When we’re of the same mind we won’t step on, around, or over others to get where we’re going.
Cultural guidelines, societal standards, others habits, and our own preferences don’t set the mindset of our homes. It doesn’t matter what the whole world does or thinks. It doesn’t matter if everyone is doing it. It only matters what God wants and what is best for our homes and families.
Bring It Home
Do you feel you are of the same mind with those in your home?
Praying for you as we grow together,
Smiles, BRC
Ellen says
Great post, but OUCH, you kinda stepped on my toes. Now I need to go think and reflect on why I felt this, and make course corrections! 😵💫
Beth Rayann Corder says
Scripture always hits me in my heart and home Ellen. So thankful God shows grace and patience and gives us second chances to make the needed changes.
Smiles, BRC
Karen OConnor says
Love this post. Agree with every word.
Beth Rayann Corder says
Thanks Karen. The verses in Romans 12 have really been making me think this year. I appreciate your feedback.
Smiles, BRC