Are we different or what?
“We should please others. If we do what helps them, we will build them up in the Lord.”
(NLT Romans 15:2)
Hello Saints,
Is it just me or does there seem to be a lot of hate in the world these days? I could list a whole bunch of examples, but I am sure you see it too! I believe it is the sign of the times, and that we are living in the last of the last days, nearing the return of Jesus (2Tim. 3:1-5). What is a Christian to do? Be distinct, separated, different – not conform to the patterns of the world, but be transformed by allowing the teachings of the Word to change our thinking! (It’s a good time to read Romans 12 & 15😊) Live like Jesus and His apostles said to live….be doers of the word, not just hearers. I have been really convicted of late to be different -to speak and act differently towards my brothers and sisters in Christ and all people – to let my words be edifying and encouraging, and to “let my gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (NIV Philippians 4:5).
So I want to encourage/exhort myself and all of us: Let’s hear and obey the Word children of God and followers of Jesus, for they will know that we are His disciples by the love we have for one another (NIV John 13:35), and not just one another but love for all – by our words and deeds:
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'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' (NKJ Matthew 22:39)
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For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (NLT Galatians 5:14)
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Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others. (NIV 1 Corinthians 10:24)
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Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. (NIV Romans 14:19)
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Whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone, especially to our Christian brothers and sisters. (NLT Galatians 6:10)
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“9Don't just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. 10 Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. 11 Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically. 12 Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful. 13 When God's children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging, for the night. 14 If people persecute you because you are a Christian, don't curse them; pray that God will bless them. 15 When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow. 16 Live in harmony with each other. Don't try to act important, but enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all! 17 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. 18 Do your part to live in peace with everyone, as much as possible. 19 Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God. For it is written, "I will take vengeance; I will repay those who deserve it," says the Lord. 20 Instead, do what the Scriptures say: "If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink, and they will be ashamed of what they have done to you." 21 Don't let evil get the best of you, but conquer evil by doing good.” (NLT Romans 12:9-21)
“May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other -- each with the attitude of Christ Jesus toward the other. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. So accept each other just as Christ has accepted you; then God will be glorified. Remember that Christ came as a servant” (NLT Romans 15:5-8a)
Have a fruitful week!
"Advancing the Kingdom of God by releasing Spirit-filled followers to serve Jesus in freedom and joy."
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