This is a tough topic to discuss but necessary. On Sunday our Pastor was talking about the importance of Biblical community at our new member class. It took me back down memory lane to when I first got saved. I have been a believer since 1999 and came to Christ without any History or knowledge of what it meant to be a believer. I think as a Christian I became more disappointed because my expectations were so high. As a babe I can remember the impressions I got from believers that were more mature then me. I watched the relationships as a saint struggle because there was more passion then there was patience and grace. I grew a lot since then and understand a component of relationships in the Kingdom of God differently and more clearer. I have been disappointed and I Have also disappointed some friends so I am not exempt. In every situation there was something missing and that component is Grace. Grace is a virtue given by God. It is unmerited divine assistance given to humans for their regeneration or sanctification. It is something given to us freely from Him. I don’t deserve Grace but I receive it. I consider grace as a tree in the midst of a field in the middle of a tornado, that appears to be blowing vigorously and close to being pulled from the roots by the storm but never does. Sometimes we forget that people need grace. They need time to get themselves together. Just like the bus driver that waits for our children in the morning as they run towards it. Some buses may leave but other buses wait until the children make it. This grace not only gives an extension for us but it over looks our ways towards others. Biblical community requires tons of grace. It requires us to consider that we once were in a bad situation and needed time and teaching. Titus 2:11-13 says For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. When we extend grace to people and do what we are supposed to do it will eventually teach those we live in biblical community with, the Love and extension of Grace available to us. If the world doesn’t see what Gods love loves like they will never understand Grace. It can be challenging at times to love people who turn a deaf ear or continue in their way but I have come to realize everyone is fighting a tough battle and needs to be extended a little more. There is no reward in loving who already loves us but the reward is in continuing to love who doesn’t love us. As a child of God let’s be found in love without dissemination. If it is not received we should kick the dust off of our feet. Matthew 10:14 says If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet. The reward of loving people is valuable. Living in biblical community can be very messy and I have seen situations come out for the good of God as well as come out bad. Even in the hardest moments We should want to be found doing what Gods word says in Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. Knowing how powerful grace is and how it is Devine assistant given for regeneration and sanctification, it should be important for us to give grace to others no matter how difficult it is. I always try to remember that I cannot continue in my way forever. There comes a point of resolution that we all need in certain phases and we must understand that Romans 6:1 says What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? Let’s continue to walk in Gods love and don’t waver when it comes to loving and giving grace to others we see each day!!
Let us Pray,
Heavenly Father we seek your assistance today. We ask that you send your precious spirit to help us be the catalyst for growth and change. Equip and strengthen us to love a dying world that may be hurting or in a bad situation. Help us and equip us to continue on the path of righteousness in-spite of our daily encounters. Teach us how to live your children the way you want us to. Help us to possess forgiving hearts and help us to be tender hearted forgiving one another just as Christ Forgave and loved the church. Give us grace for grace and strengthen us to pour our your love from a pure heart. We thank you for the victory in our lives and in our biblical community. We come to you and Thank you for the wisdom to continue to grow in grace and in love. I’m Jesus Name amen.
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