Watchful and loving!
Scripture reading for July 28: 1 Corinthians 16
“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love. Now I urge you brothers–you know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints–be subject to such as these, and to every fellow worker and laborer.” 1 Corinthians 16:13-16
Paul closes his letter to the believers in Corinth with a gentle reminder of their need to walk out their faith with watchfulness and love. Watchfulness is needed because there is a real enemy, Satan, who is always out to deceive believers with lies or accusations. There are also those in the church who are not fully committed to the Lord and are still in some bondage to Satan and are capable of causing division and leading others astray. We are to be loving to all, but discerning and watchful. It is loving to protect those in the church by watchfulness and correction where necessary.
Paul also urged the believers to be strong in their faith, standing firm in the truth and submitted to those who are elders in the church. Paul named the household of Stephanas and others like these as those to be subject to and serve in love. As we mature, we are to develop a world view of understanding and discernment that acts in love to equip and protect others in the church. We are to humbly stay submitted to mature and committed leaders that also watch over us and give an account to God on our behalf. (Hebrews 13:17)
How would you describe your current walk as a believer of Jesus Christ? Is watchfulness a big part of your life and are you submitted to mature leaders in the church who will watch with you? Would you describe your walk as strong and loving?
Prayer: Holy Father, thank You for reminding me of my need to be watchful over myself, my family, and brothers and sisters in my church family. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and empower me to be strong in my faith and do everything in Christ’s love. I willingly submit to those in church leadership. Amen.
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