what causes fights and quarrels among you?...doesn't it come from bitterness and idols that are rooted in pride in your hearts?...let all of you be humbled because God opposes the proud, but gives grace(undeserved favor) to the humble." James 2
Col 3:12-17 "12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
Many times, I try to justify my reactions to how people treat me or talk about me, but my little brother pointed out to me that I need to demonstrate that same GRACE to others that God has poured out to me to these people. He loves me and COMMANDS me to be humble, gentle, compassionate and LOVING nomatter how people treat me. I am a child of God, an Image Bearer of the Creator of the Universe and I must live out of that knowledge, that TRUTH and not be marked by those who hurt me or belittle me. My life as a Christian is rooted in Love and regardless of who says what or does whatever, I must live a life out of that calling. Boy, its a fun calling, huh, friends?? :) But, know that we have been given everything we need to live that kind of life! In our walks with God, Satan works very diligently to destroy our bond of peace, love and unity with God and with other believers. We MUST fight against that with EVERY EFFORT. When we do fall for his old, ever familiar tricks, we break community, and when this happens, it results in broken fellowship not only with eachother, but with God himself because we are prideful. God OPPOSES the proud, but gives GRACE to the humble...those who love, despite the other person or people involved....
Ephesians 4:29-32 "29Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you"Yeah, basically, we know the Enemy is working to break us (the church, the family of God) apart, but may we do as we are commanded, though it does not come naturally, and LOVE one another. Our commission is to make disciples of ALL nations, but why would they ever want to join our family if they witness us tearing eachother down??? ....Lets be quick to love, to forgive and in that, may they SEE THE LOVE WE HAVE FOR OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS and be drawn to our faith in JESUS CHRIST, whom laid down His own life for us all. What grace, what love, what undeserved favor we have to offer those around us and afar. Praise Jesus.
Blessings, friends and foe alike.
arb 5/12/2009
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