Endurance and encouragement

Romans 15:4 “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” The greatest Teacher with the most valuable lessons wrote a Book which has contents that if read and studied with an attitude of using its words and applying them to life will not only guarantee a successful life on this earth, but will guarantee happiness for all eternity.  The Bible, though a short history book, is the most wonderful Book ever written.  Why would any of us not be thrilled to read it, enjoy its contents and make it a most valuable part of our daily lives?

Humble yet strong

Romans 15:1 “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.” Conceit has never and will never be admired.  Humility and strength of character has always and will always be admired.  A truly humble person with a spirit of strength given by our Creator God should be the quality of every Christian.  A weak faith will always be strengthened with encouragement from a faith filled Christian.  You and I should always be thankful and humble.

Arguing is not God’s way

Romans 14:19 “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” Our purpose in discussion with others should always be to help him or her have an increased or stronger faith.  Nothing is accomplished with the mentality–I won the argument.  Winning an argument only decreases friendship and eliminates both present and future opportunities for increased faith and friendship.   Have a great weekend.

Who owns you?

Romans 14:8 “If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord.  So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” God owns everything.  Everything includes you and me and everything we think we own and have full control of.  When we realize that truth we also have to realize we all have one purpose and that purpose is to continually give glory to our God, serve Him, tell others of Him and joyfully live thanking Him for His unbelievable love for each of us, His adopted child.  

Weak vs. strong

Romans 14:1 “Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters.” You and I can study God’s Word as thoroughly as our brain power allows and we will arrive at different conclusions as to what is God’s will.  We begin with the same premise that God’s Word is absolute truth, there are no contradictions and the Trinity defines God.  Yet, there are Baptists, Lutherans, Methodists, Presbyterians and the list is almost endless.  Who is right?  Who is wrong?  Our problem is not with our premise.  It is with our brain power.  Our human nature.  Our not being our infallible God.  Therefore,  listen carefully while not judging and realize no human possesses absolute truth–while our God does.  Be Christian–know your Savior while continuing to study and pray.