Monday, September 10, 2012
One Another Relationships
Today's Scripture
"Fill up and complete my joy by living in harmony and being of the same mind and one in purpose, having the same love, being in full accord and of one harmonious mind and intention." Philippians 2:2 AMP
Thoughts for Today
All through the Bible, we find "one another" scriptures that instruct us in the kinds of caring action and attitudes that ought to characterize our relationships as brothers and sisters in Christ. God clearly defines what kind of relationships we should have … and yet we so often fail to develop the type of relationships that he desires for us. And when we fail, we not only add unnecessary stress to our lives and the lives of those around us—but we also fail to exemplify the love of Jesus to unbelievers who may be observing.
God has blessed each of us with gifts and talents and then placed us within a body of believers with a variety of gifts. As we live in harmony and love, focused on God's plan, we can accomplish so much more than if we each try to do our own thing. And along the way, we will develop relationships that we can count on—relationships built on a foundation of God's love.
Consider this …
Do you see yourself as part of God's team? Are you and other Christians in your church—and in other churches and ministries in your community—working together in harmony? Are you focusing on differences … or on God's bigger plan? Ask God to show you personally what you can do to improve your relationship with a specific brother or sister in Christ. Perhaps it is someone you have criticized … or someone you feel as though you are competing against. Maybe you have bickered about theology or passed judgment on his or her behavior. Ask God to help you relate to this person in love and harmony and build his kind of "one another" relationship.
Prayer
Lord, I know there are times when I let personal feelings and differences interfere with my relationship with other believers. Please forgive me and help me have the kinds of "one another" relationships described in your Word. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and is suggested for use in support groups and Christian counseling.
- Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships
- Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare
- Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support
- Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons
- How to pray for healing and what to expect
- Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ
Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.