Sunday, April 17, 2005
Romans 15:1-6
15:1 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV)
by Leanne Lippincott
“Harmony” is important. In singing, it makes music pleasing. In neighborhoods, it promotes peace. In family, it brings about peace and comfort. Among Christians, it fosters unity.
Nothing is sadder than to see a church lose its spirit of unity. My sister told how a former pastor nearly destroyed their church when his unethical behavior was exposed. Members of the congregation ended up taking sides, straining friendships in the process. A new pastor has brought about healing and unity.
Copyright Information
Daily Bible Meditations are taken from The Helping Hand,a Sabbath School student quarterly for youth and adults. Copyright © 2008, Seventh Day Baptist Board of Christian Education, Inc.
Scripture quotations marked "ESV" are taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Text provided by the Crossway Bibles Web Service .
