Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Never lag in zeal and in earnest endeavor; be aglow and burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord. "Romans 12:11 AMP
Thoughts for Today
In the body of Christ, just like in a jigsaw puzzle, every piece counts. If you are not using your gifts and abilities to do what God has called you to do, you may be the missing piece!
There are many reasons we may fail to do our part. Sometimes we know God is calling us to do a particular task, but we are fearful. We don't feel qualified. Sometimes we get so caught up in busyness doing other things that our service in the body becomes a low priority. Other times we may be asked to do something that we don't want to do. Perhaps we feel we should be asked to serve in a higher position. Sometimes we stop serving because someone in the church has offended us. The reasons are many but the result the same: We leave a hole in the puzzle.
Consider this …
If we don't do what God has prepared us for and is calling us to do because of fear, our focus is on ourselves instead of God. We can do all things through Christ! (Philippians 4:13). If we will step out in faith, doing what we know he wants us to do, he will make it possible.
If we don't do what God is calling us to do because we want to do something else, maybe something more "important," we have the same problem. Our eyes are on ourselves instead of Jesus.
Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. Romans 12:3 NLT
If we get caught up in a whirlwind of activities and too busy to follow God's leading, we are too busy. Today's scripture urges us not to lack in zeal, to be aglow with burning with the Spirit, serving the Lord!
If you know you are a missing piece in the puzzle, it may be time to have a look at the reasons. To ask God to help you get back on track.
Prayer
Lord, I know I haven't been doing what you want me to do. Please forgive me. I don't want to be the missing piece to the puzzle. I want to do the part you have prepared me to do. Please help me get back on track. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
One Nation Under God: Toward Race Reconciliation by Donna Saunders, Ph.D. and Jean Leak, MS, RN. This study discusses barriers between people and shows how to make Christ visible through love in action. This guide also offers the way to strengthen and bond relationships. 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.p>
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