“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.” – Romans 12:17
Relationship with Others
As followers of Christ, we are called to build harmonious relationships with those around us. The Bible teaches us that maintaining peace and kindness in our interactions is essential. Doing no harm to others includes not just physical actions, but also our words and thoughts. Our relationships should reflect love and empathy rather than resentment or anger. By choosing to act with kindness, we embody the love of Christ and foster a community that reflects His grace. The call to do no harm in our relationships challenges us to consider how we impact those around us and encourages us to prioritize peaceful coexistence.
1 Peter 3:9
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” – 1 Peter 3:9
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” – Matthew 7:12
Galatians 5:15
“If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.” – Galatians 5:15
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Words Matter
Our words hold great power, and the Bible clearly instructs us to use them wisely. Oftentimes, harm can come through careless or harsh words. We should be mindful of our speech and strive to uplift rather than tear down. Letting our conversations be laced with kindness not only reflects our character but also shows the love of God to those around us. This aligns perfectly with the command to do no harm; it challenges us to speak life into others rather than create hurt. Words can heal, encourage, and bring unity, and we must ensure ours are always chosen with care.
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” – Ephesians 4:29
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
Actions Speak Louder
It is not enough to refrain from doing harm; we also have the responsibility to actively do good. Our actions should reflect our faith, and doing no harm is complemented by performing good deeds. When we contribute positively to the lives of others, we embody the essence of Christ’s teachings. Acts of kindness not only promote peace but also create a ripple effect of goodwill in our communities. By taking actions that uplift others and support their needs, we not only fulfill our calling but also illustrate the love God has for us through our genuine acts of service.
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
Titus 3:14
“Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.” – Titus 3:14
1 John 3:18
“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18
Romans 15:1
“We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.” – Romans 15:1
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Forgiveness and Grace
Part of doing no harm involves cultivating an attitude of forgiveness and grace. We know that everyone makes mistakes, including ourselves. The Bible urges us to forgive those who wronged us, just as God forgives our transgressions. Holding onto bitterness or grudges can cause harm, not just to the ones we refuse to forgive but also to ourselves. By extending grace to others, we free ourselves from the chains of unforgiveness and demonstrate the love and mercy that Christ shows us. This is how we can truly embody the principle of doing no harm in our lives.
Matthew 6:14
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Mark 11:25
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Luke 6:37
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” – Luke 6:37
God’s Commands
God has set forth commandments that guide us on how to live righteously and avoid harm. These commandments are not only rules but are rooted in love and provide a framework for us to follow. By adhering to God’s word, we develop a deeper relationship with Him and can better reflect His character in our lives. Following God’s commandments guides us in doing no harm and encourages us to embrace righteousness, acting in love toward others. It reassures us that we are on the right path in our pursuit of holiness and kindness.
Exodus 20:13
“You shall not murder.” – Exodus 20:13
1 John 2:4
“Whoever says, ‘I know him,’ but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person.” – 1 John 2:4
Deuteronomy 30:16
“For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws.” – Deuteronomy 30:16
James 4:17
“If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.” – James 4:17
Luke 10:27
“He answered: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'” – Luke 10:27
Inner Peace and Reflection
Doing no harm greatly involves cultivating a spirit of kindness and inner peace. When our hearts are filled with love and serenity, it becomes challenging to offend or harm others. We can find this peace by spending time in prayer, reflection, and seeking God’s presence in our lives. By developing this inner tranquility, we align ourselves with God’s will and encourage a harmonious atmosphere. It allows us to approach others with kindness and grace, bringing healing instead of hurt. This journey of nurturing our inner peace is fundamental in our efforts to uphold the noble principle of doing no harm.
Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7
Psalm 34:14
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” – Psalm 34:14
Proverbs 16:7
“When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.” – Proverbs 16:7
Romans 12:18
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” – Romans 12:18
Psalm 119:165
“Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.” – Psalm 119:165
Final Thoughts
In our journey of faith, adhering to the principle of doing no harm is vital. Through our relationships with others, the carefulness of our words, and the good deeds we perform, we can cultivate a spirit of kindness and compassion in our daily lives. By choosing forgiveness and grace, we reflect Christ’s love and mercy, ensuring that we uplift rather than harm. God’s commands guide our actions, while inner peace helps us maintain a heart aligned with His will. Let’s strive to engage proactively with the world around us, embracing our ability to do good and spread kindness.
I encourage each of us to reflect on how we can uphold this moral principle. Let us commit ourselves to live peacefully, forgiving those who may wrong us, and seeking the good in all situations. As we foster loving relationships and speak uplifting words, we fulfill our calling to reflect God’s love.
For additional inspiration, check out these articles on kindness and generosity and kindness and forgiveness.