Observation: As Paul is starting to conclude this letter, he discusses Christian life together. He encourages Christians to live in harmony with one other, as doing so will glorify God. Jesus of course would say something similar, telling his disciples that the world will know believers by the fact that they love one another.
However, Paul doesn't just tell Christians to do this ... he asks that the Lord give us the ability to do it ... aligning such an act of God with endurance and encouragement. In other words, doing life together within a Christian community - with our differing backgrounds, opinions, and even ideas about scripture - is hard both mentally and emotionally, and only by the power of God can we do it.
Application: As insiders in a church - my wife being a pastor - I know this is hard. Even last night as we discussed her job as couples do, the issue she's dealing with in that revenue is down almost 40 percent because so many members of our church don't give, and it frustrates and angers us. Tithing is a basic part of faith, and almost no one does it, and very few even give some lesser amount regularly. Meanwhile, we spent time confirming my layoff severance amount so we can give 10 percent when it arrives.
We can't help be frustrated, irritated, and angry with others. Paul reminds me today that I cannot overcome those feelings on my own. I need God's grace, peace, and love, in order to find a way to live in harmony with others in the church. That would be nice to have.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your love. Please do grant me peace and harmony with your other believers. Also, please renew my mind in all matters, censing me of lethargy and lack of focus, and bringing me back into a mental state to serve you, serve others, be present with my wife, and prepare for good work in your name ahead. Amen.
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