February 6
Romans 15.1-6
1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbours for their good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We might like this to be about others needing to deal with our weakness, as we don’t feel so strong. Then Paul will turn it back on us in 2 Corinthians 12.10: “For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Because it is not that we are strong on our own, but that we are made strong in Christ as the Spirit is at work in us. No matter how we try to turn it, we are the ones who should live out the pattern of living to please our neighbours. Living as Christ did, for the good of the people who have not yet begun to follow God.
Paul speaks of his own weakness in that thorn in the flesh. The weakness that God told Paul would not be removed. Being reminded that God’s grace is sufficient. Not just for Paul to keep going, but for Paul to bring grace and lead the church through his life and work.
It is not about how strong we think we are. Physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually. It is about how strong God’s grace is. Believing that God’s grace is much greater than any single thing, or any multitude of things in life. Believing that God’s grace is greater says that as the Spirit of God is at work in me, then I have the place of encouraging each one in my path today.
Song – Amazing Love
Prayer
Come, Holy Spirit! Rain upon our dry and dusty lives. Wash away our sin and heal our wounded spirits. Kindle within us the fire of your love to burn away our apathy. With your warmth bend our rigidity and guide our wandering feet. Amen.