January 3, 2009

Be Like-Minded

Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind [and] one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 15:5-6 NKJV)

There is a great need for like-mindedness today. Not that everyone thinks the same way about questionable issues, like eating and drinking, but that we seek to be unified in the love of Christ.

The source of patience and comfort is Christ. He must grant us this patience for it is not in us naturally. However, by faith and prayer we can follow Him with the help of the Holy Spirit.

The goal of this unity is the glorification of the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It seems to me this is worth the effort. When you think about what God has done for us, it is really foolish to be putting down our brothers in Christ because they don’t cross their T’s and dot their I’s the same way. Even if there are considerable differences in liberties, our love for God and each other should engender in us well wishes for each other.

When we treat each other with love because of Christ, then the Father is glorified. As you go about your day, think about focusing on the wellbeing of others. Don’t throw your differences in their face. That would be receiving them for doubtful disputations. Instead, seek to encourage them in the Lord, and you will be likeminded. Amen.