Romans 15:4-6 NLT
Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled. May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
From the first day of creation, God birthed order, purpose, and unity into all things. Even after sin and rebellion entered the world, His ways were still available to practice as we see in the lives of those in the Old Testament. Regardless of how anyone else may choose to live, He has given us the ability to commune together in patience, encouragement, harmony, and unity. Both our individual work and our corporate worship can reflect His nature, producing good and blessing to others.
At any age we are and any stage of life, the community to which we commit our hearts and minds is crucial to our personal quality of life and faith. Those we join together with will determine our life and our future.
Is there a community you need to leave or have outgrown?
Is there a community you need to commit to and add your voice?
As you consider these questions, listen to this passage once more from the Message: … May our dependably steady and warmly personal God develop maturity in you so that you get along with each other as well as Jesus gets along with us all. Then we’ll be a choir—not our voices only, but our very lives singing in harmony in a stunning anthem to the God and Father of our Master Jesus!
A community that lives in complete harmony? Sounds a lot like Heaven, doesn’t it? But Scripture is clear that we can get started right here, right now. What is one way you can move towards strengthening the harmony between those in your community today?
Let’s pray: “Father, while I wait for Your promises to be fulfilled, please give me patience and encouragement, help me live in complete harmony with others, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Lead me to join my voice to the community that gives praise and glory to You, Father. As above, so below. Amen”