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Look Out for Number One

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number 1

You’ve heard people say many things that sound good at first blush but prove to be disastrous in practice. One that comes to mind is: “You’ve got to look out for number one.” While there are situations where this would be good advice; it is not a philosophy to live by. During the “Sermon on the Mount” Jesus reveals other sayings that were incomplete. Here are a couple of them. Here also are some ways we can #shine by applying what Jesus said.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. — Mt 5:38-41

Don’t be undone by those who are doing evil or demanding. Instead, overcome them by doing good (Ro 12:21.) It is more effective way to #shine by being kind to those who are demanding.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? — Mt 5:43-47

It is very simple to love someone when you are expecting something in return.  Even the shrewd shady businessman loves you until the deal is done.

In both of these situations there is an opportunity to do more. There is an opportunity to shine.