Saturday, October 4, 2025

As we wrap up the Don't Get Screwed series, we're reminded that relationships can be messy, complicated, and sometimes painful. We've explored how to handle overly critical people, how to confront conflict instead of avoiding it, how to forgive when we're hurt, and how to take responsibility for our part in every relationship.

The series theme verse is Romans 12:17–18. It gives us this framework as instruction:

"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."

Living this out doesn't mean every relationship will be perfect, or even fully restored. But it does mean that we should take responsibility for what we can control: our own responses, our own words, our own pursuit of peace. Notice Paul's words from the verse in Romans: "Do all that you can." That doesn't promise every situation will turn out the way we hope, but it calls us to reflect Jesus in the way we show grace, forgive, and seek restoration.

The truth is, we all play a role in maintaining the health of our relationships. When we stay rooted in God's love, he gives us the strength to love others - even when it's hard.

As you reflect on this series, take some time to ask:

Where do I need to release bitterness or forgive?

Is there a conversation I've been avoiding that God is prompting me to have?

How can I better reflect Christ in the way I respond to difficult people?

You can't control what others do. But through Christ, you can choose peace, pursue love, and hold onto unshakeable joy.

Prayer: 
Heavenly Father, when I am wronged, remind me not to repay hurt with hurt. Instead, fill me with patience and grace so that my responses reflect your peace. Teach me to live honorably before others, choosing forgiveness over bitterness and kindness over revenge. Where relationships feel strained or broken, give me wisdom and humility to do my part in making peace. I love you, I trust you, and I worship 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 Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the Daily LivingItOut.