Live it
We read in Acts of the first century church and how we, as twenty first century believers should behave. Sadly, there are more differences between the two than similarities. For example, Scripture says they were in one accord in one place, and no, they didn't all cram into a Honda. Seriously, they did constantly devote themselves to godly teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread and prayer. They helped those with needs, ate together with grateful hearts and praised God in all circumstances.

Sadly however, most of us don't enjoy our spiritual family any more than our earthly family. Envy. strife and pride has found a home, not only in the world, but also in the church and has divided more than one congregation as a result. In fact, more new churches have probably been established from a split than a mission start. Contempt, disagreement, jealousy and arrogance can drive a wedge in a congregation, often beginning with an influential person with a "My way or the Highway" attitude. Some might say that's the way God spreads the gospel as he did with Paul, Silas, Barnabas and John Mark. Come on, do you really think God depends on sin to motivate us to obedience?

Pray it
There's nothing more beautiful than loving family and nothing as ugly as one torn apart by sin. Thank you that You love us whichever path we take, and more importantly, that You are the God of second, third, forth... chance.

Resources
Why should God pry us loose from the things that tend to separate us from Him? (2000)
Have you previously memorized Scripture that you will need today? (2003)
Just because He's the Burden-Bearer doesn't mean we should add to his weight load (2004)
It requires wisdom to know how to pray rightly (2005)
Devotional (2006)
Devotional (2007)
Does the Holy Spirit have control over us? (2008)

Prayertower Devotionals are the original creation of James R. Green: Just Thinkin'... (2000-2003), Read the Bible Thru in 365 Days (2004), Pray Thru the Word in 365 Days (2005).and One-minute Devotionals (2006 to present).
Scripture provided by God's Word Translation (c)1995 - God's Word to the Nations. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright ©2009 James R. Green, Webservant - Prayertower Ministries
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