We’ve got your daily encouragement, written by Lindsey Strickler.
Bible Reading:
Romans 15:1-7
We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
Word:
Let’s dive in to part 2 of Romans 15:1-7. Again, this is just a super practical approach to how we strive for peace in our immediate world around us.
Verse 4- The things that were written for us in the past, the Bible, is there to help us. We need to be reading it. Proverbs is loaded with practical advice for us on how to live peacefully with people. And when we say peacefully, it doesn’t mean no conflict ever and people are passive, it means working towards wholeness.
Verse 5 and 6- Ultimately, it’s God who helps us leave in harmony with one another. We have to do things on his terms, which we know by reading the words written in the former days, the Bible; and by his Spirit helping us and empowering us. We do this together, we need each other, we can’t do it along.
Verse 7- Welcome each other into community the way Jesus welcomed us. How did he do that? With open arms, with grace. He didn’t care what our background or past was, he just brought us in. We need to do the same thing with one another.
Straight forward steps, right? But so hard to do sometimes. Especially in today’s age where everyone is screaming at each other online and avoiding each other offline. But as uncomfortable as it is, we’re called to something bigger than the drama of today.
There will be times where it’s appropriate to speak truth, but what’s our tone? There’s also more times where we need to look at how we’re treating the people. Are we showing kindness, decency, and respect? Regardless of their views or actions?
Prayer:
God, help me to see people as you see them. Help me to love them in the big and small ways. I get in the way sometimes and need you to show me where I need to course-correct. As uncomfortable as it is, I need you to open my eyes and also give me the strength to be there person you want me to be. Please help me be an agent of healing for my community. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Skillwork:
We’re going to repeat yesterday’s Skillwork. See if you can make it an AMRAP today. Start looking to see if there are ways you can better bear with people who may not be like you. Look for ways to encourage your neighbor, or the person in the gym you work out next to today. Be willing to get uncomfortable and not “get it right” all the time.
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