Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- April 11, 2012
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:27
There is a larger context to life than just living for self. A self-focused life is chronically frustrated and is unable to reach its full potential. Its demanding demur marginalizes wise counsel and only attracts insecure individuals. However, those who pray for what’s best for the whole, become whole. Everyone is honored in an environment where individual contributions are valued. “We not me” is the vocabulary of those who honor each other.
Every disciple is stronger when they are connected to other Christ followers. Isolation contributes to spiritual impotence, but community gives spiritual life. Encouragement and accountability are exalted in relationships that serve what’s best for the group. A leader who serves the team, sees other team members serve well. A man who serves his family, experiences a family that serves each other. “We overcomes me” with unselfish service.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10
Our spiritual birth engrafted us as a member of Christ’s body. We cannot detach an appendage of the Lord’s, anymore than a member of our physical body can be disassociated from the other body parts. So, we pray for those around us who know Christ and we get to know each other. Oh the joy of being known and knowing others who love Him! Life that is truly life is lived in the margins with those submitted to our Savior Jesus.
Are you motivated first by “He”, second by “we” and lastly by “me”? If so, you are set up for relational fulfillment. The sequence for successful thinking is Him, them and you. “Me” will try to squeeze in and monopolize relationships, cannibalize conversations and hijack heaven’s agenda. Thus, by God’s grace, put to death the “me monster” and replace it with love for the Lord and people. “We not me” is the motto of mature Jesus followers.
“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.” Romans 13:8
Prayer: Lord, whose needs can I put ahead of mine through my prayers and service?
Related Readings: Romans 12:10-16; 14:13; 15:7; 2 Corinthians 13:11; Galatians 5:13
Post/Tweet this today: Isolation contributes to spiritual impotence, but community gives spiritual life. #community #spiritual life
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This reminds me of JOY: Jesus, Others, You. Thanks for the great words you write each day. Lord bless you,
Karl