Scripture for the Week. - Is not our righteous God amazing?
Isn't it wondrous how our heavenly Father knows us so well?
As a man much in need of the grace of Christ in my life, I stand in awe of the patience of Christ with me. Indeed, I'm in awe at his patience with fallen man. Why he doesn't just speak a word and bring a complete end to our sinful existence is a testimony to his love, to the very cross of Christ.
I was reminded this morning of God's grace with us in reading from Matthew 18. This particular verse stood out to me today:
“And if thy brother sin against thee, go, show him his fault between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.” (Mt 18:15 ASV)
Isn't it amazing that still today, after so many years from when Christ taught this, that we Christians still have problems along this line? We Christians can be terribly guilty of not following this advice. Often times the sin or grievance we feel another Christian has done against us is easily rectified by going directly to that brother or sister and honestly letting them know of the perceived wrong.
But the manner in which we do it must be bound in love that ignores pride and self; the same love that would be willing to be nailed to a cross for that brother or sister.
If we go to them in accusatory tones, or seeking an offensive tack, then they will become defensive.
To often in the Church today we immediately make the grievance public and all that does is weaken our testimony to the world from which we are called to be set apart - consider 1 Corinthians 6.
In all things we should act not out of our hurt but in obedience out of the Father's love. It's not easy. My God knows it's not been easy for this fallen but redeemed man. So often I've reacted out my injury and for that I can only ask forgiveness. I only hope I haven't damaged my fellow Christian or put a wall up before a non-believer.
Striving forward in Christ.
The Great Separation continues.
