We have to realize that we cannot earn or win anything from God; we must either receive it as a gift or do without it.
Read
1 Samuel 26:7-11
David has an opportunity to kill Saul, who has declared David as his enemy. Abishai encourages David to do it, but David correctly refuses to lay a hand on God's anointed.
Think
In spite of their enmity, David and Saul have a touching conversation in verses 21-24 of the same chapter. Saul asks David to forgive him, and David prays that the Lord will show him the same grace that David showed Saul.
Pray
Here's a tough one. Think of someone who is your "enemy." Pray for them and ask God to show you a way to honor them.
Live
Seek out intentional opportunities to honor those who dishonor you and to value the lives of those who do not value you.
This is radical behavior and is the kind of thing that could turn our world topsy-turvy. This is the kind of action that Jesus spoke of when he told us to turn the other cheek.
Our pride (at least mine) is what keeps us from following Jesus in this command. Pride is ugly. At least when it keeps us from following God. When it causes us to place ourselves on a pedestal above others.
Dear God, I need this. Help me to value others more than myself. Especially...most especially those who seem not to value me. If it means being a doormat, then let me be a doormat for you.
Grace and peace...