Colossians 3:12-17 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And 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.
With the entire Bible serving as an instruction manual for the church, this scripture would be highlighted in the chapter of How to BE a church. All the virtues we should exhibit are held together by three actions – forgiveness, love and thankfulness. If you are not happy with your congregation right now, look to your virtues. Are you exhibiting these virtues to bring peace, or are your actions inhibiting peace among your congregation?
Father, I want to be a part of the peace Christ brings to the church. May I allow the Holy Spirit to prick my heart to choose virtue over self-centeredness, and peace over pride. Help me to fully forgive and be fully forgiven by others. Bring Your peace! I love You! Amen
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
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