Thursday, September 11, 2025

New Testament Reading Plan: 1 Corinthians 9

Proverbs 12:18
Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.

I consider myself an upbeat and cheerful person. But I’m still learning to choose to be positive and not respond defensively when I am offended. Honestly, it’s a choice I have to make several times a day, and sometimes, I still fail miserably.

After all, it’s hard to be around people who are critical and judgmental. When someone says something nasty, it’s difficult not to become defensive and respond in a negative manner.

As we kicked off our new series, Don’t Get Screwed, we focused on how Jesus responded to people who were difficult and critical.

Luke 7:40
Then Jesus answered his thoughts. “Simon,” he said to the Pharisee, “I have something to say to you.”

“Go ahead, Teacher,” Simon replied.

Jesus responded in a kind and humble way to Simon’s disrespectful thoughts, attitude, and behavior. Instead of exposing Simon’s misconduct publicly or acting defensively, Jesus chose not to be offended. Instead, he replied with a story, using both his words and tone to bring healing and restoration.

As I grow in my faith, I want to be more like Jesus. I want to be humble and not easily offended, no matter how difficult it is to do. Thankfully, I don’t have to do this myself; I just need to spend time in God’s Word and let him change me.

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

Jesus deeply loves each of us, even the people we find difficult to be around! He calls us to follow his example by responding to critical and judgmental people with respect and kindness. Jesus wants us to love others as he loves us, to show grace as he has shown grace to us, and to let him change us so that we become more like him.

Questions:
How do you respond to people who are critical and judgmental?

How does Jesus respond to critical and judgmental people?

How can you respond more like Jesus?

Next Steps:
Read the Bible daily. Start with “Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman” in Luke 7:36-50, an amazing passage that shows us how Jesus responded to a difficult and critical person.

Pray for Jesus to change your heart to become more like him. Then listen for his leading and obey.

Prayer:
Jesus, I praise and worship you. I cannot believe the King of kings is so humble, kind, and loving. Help me to respond lovingly and graciously to difficult people. I want to use my words to bring healing and restoration. Change me to be more and more like you. I love and adore you. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:

Romans 12:17-18
Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

This post was written by Marsha Raymond, an Oregon attendee, and a regular contributor to the Daily LivingItOut.