We’ve got your daily encouragement, written by ha************@gm***.com" data-hovercard-owner-id="111">Hannah Winslow.
Bible Reading:
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
Word:
In James 5:16, we are being shown the power of prayer in fellowship with the body of Christ. We know that when two or more come together in Christ’s name, that he is there with them and they will have the favor of God on their requests (Matthew 18:18-20). Fellowship among Christ’s followers is critical in a healthy relationship with God; he created us for unity in relationships with others and with himself, just like God is a triune being of three members.
Every one of us as Christ followers are contending with our flesh every single day of our lives here on this side of eternity. When we share our sins and struggles with each other, those struggles lose much of their power as they are brought into the light. Not only is that extremely helpful in avoiding the feelings of isolation and self-condemnation, but James also tells us in verse 16 that the prayers of a righteous person is instrumental in effecting change! We absolutely need to surround ourselves with strong brothers and sisters in Christ that we can trust and imitate (as they imitate Christ-1 Corinthians 11:1) and share our struggles with sin to be prayed over.
Confessing sin might sound like an intimidating event, but it is meant to be a nonjudgmental yet bold and correcting part of the process of spiritual healing. We need to make sure that the people we confide in are growing in the heart of Christ, and that we are doing the same for our own good and for others!
Prayer:
Father, please show us the individuals that you have placed in our lives at this point in time to grow alongside and encourage. Please give us the boldness and faith in your process of healing to extend grace towards others, and to accept the grace we need from them. We love you and we praise you for the sanctifying work that you promise to complete in each of our lives. Your way is the best way, your heart is the best heart. Your intentions are the best intentions we could ever imagine. Thank you Lord! In Jesus’ name, amen!
Skillwork:
Keep on asking God to identify those Christian brothers and sisters that he is going to provide fellowship, grace, and accountability through. Cultivate your heart for Jesus through reading his word so that you can be that someone for the people that he brings into your life!
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