Welcome to today's encouragement from Our Daily Bread.

Our Reading titled, Reflecting Christ's Character, was written by Cindy Hess Casper.

Two faces at the table stood out, one contorted by bitter anger, the other twisted in emotional

pain.

A reunion of old friends had just erupted into shouting, with one woman berating another

for her beliefs.

The contention continued until the first woman stomped out of the restaurant, leaving the other shaken and humiliated.

Are we really living in a time when a difference of opinion can't be tolerated?

Just because two people can't agree doesn't mean that either is evil. Speech that's harsh or inyielding

is never persuasive, and strong views shouldn't overcome decency or compassion. Romans 12 is a great

guide for how to honor one another and live in harmony with other people. Jesus indicated

that an identifying characteristic for believers in Him is the love we have for each other.

While pride and anger can easily derail us, they're in direct contrast to the love God wants us to show to others. It's a challenge

not to blame others when we lose control of our emotions, but the words, as far as it depends on you,

live at peace with everyone in Romans 12, show us that the responsibility for living a life that reflects Christ's character

can't be shifted to anyone else. It lies with each one of us who bear his name.

Today's Our Daily Bread Devotional Scripture reading is from Romans chapter 12, verses 9 through 18.

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord.

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice

hospitality. Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those

who rejoice. Mour with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another do not be proud but be

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