Romans 11 — Israel, the Gentiles, and Salvation
Romans 12:1-8 — A Living Sacrifice, Gifts of Grace
Romans 12:9-21 — Marks of the True Christian
Thoughts about serving others
This link includes a list of posts about Serving the Least, the Lost, and the Lonely.
My prayer is for you to join me on this journey. Subscribe to this blog below to get an email when a new post is available.
Let the Word evoke words. May your life encourage lives.
God is always at work for us, for his chosen, though they may be few and far between. “So, too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.” (Romans 11:5-6). In a day and age where God is minimized as much as possible, the idea that the remnant will always exist gives us hope for the future. If you are reading these words, and if God is speaking to you, listen to his prompting and his direction: you are part of his chosen. Not that we should take pride in this, rather that we have a responsibility. Not that it is easier, it is more significant, worthy of time and attention.
It is a spiritual battle and Satan would love to ensnare us, even those who have accepted Christ, by distracting us from God’s purpose. We have a choice. Paul reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (12:2). We renew our minds everyday we read God’s word. There has never been a time when his word has been more readily available, given to us plainly in many languages and styles of writing. Simply put, we have no excuse! Our society would rather us focus on getting more stuff, something newer, better–anything to distract us from God’s purpose.
We must not become so self-absorbed. We must love one another and care for our brothers and sisters, as well as those who do not know Christ. But we must not attempt to do this as if it were a task to be accomplished. “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good” (12:9). Our sincerity will be tested. The church provides a fertile ground to developing true friendships, an opportunity to come along side each other and drop the pretense. Those who are wealthy in this world have no advantage over those who have nothing. “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality” (12:12-13). We are to love one another sincerely, focused on God, with no selfish thoughts. Lord help me to tune out the world’s tempting tunes and hear the music you play so loud and clear. Teach me patience and reverence, keep me humble and always willing to serve others. Help me to conform to your will and your ways. Always for your honor and glory. Thanks for the privilege of being grafted into your family. I do not take that for granted, nor do I think myself more highly than others as a result. Praise the Lord at all times and through all things. Amen.