✝️ Daily Devotional - May 17, 2021

💙 Worship: If you'd like to play a song before you begin or while you read, may we recommend "Good Grace" by Hillsong UNITED. Why not try asking alexa, siri, or google to play it for you?! 

💛 Daily Verse: Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time.
☆ Titus 3:9 NLT

💚 Let's Talk About It: This isn't the first time we see Paul encouraging the people of the NT church to not argue with one another. Paul gives the same message about quarreling to Timothy in 1 Timothy chapter 1.

This is because Paul knows that in order for us to walk in love, we must put aside our theology and choose to overlook minor differences in belief. How are we to keep the Kingdom perspective in view if we are consumed with being right?

Let's not forget how Paul encourages us that in Christ, there is no designation of Jew or Gentile. This can be related to today as Christ sees no difference in denomination. Rather, He distinguishes between those who are in relationship with Him and those who are not (Rom. 10:12, 1 Cor. 12:13, Gal. 3:28, Col. 3:11).

The truth is, the enemy of our souls loves to cause discord among the ranks of believers. He is cunning and realizes that if he can get us to argue amongst ourselves, he doesn't even have to lift a finger. Remember, the Bible teaches that a house divided cannot stand (Matt 12:25, Mark 3:25). Even Peter reminds us that the enemy is always on the hunt for those whom he may "devour" (1 Peter 5:8).

So, what petty difference keeps you from walking in agreement with other believers? Is it your thoughts on baptism, the sacraments, or eschatology? How can you choose to let go of self in order to help ensure the army of God continues to flourish?

🧡 Prayer: Father God, I thank You for this gentle reminder that if we are in Christ, we are a part of the dame family. Thank You for teaching me that thought we have different dogmatic views and doctrinal beliefs, we can still serve you in one accord for we are all part of the same body. I am so grateful for Your Word, God that teaches unity and which also instructs us to put aside our differences for Your namesake, Lord. Please help me to remember this when necessary. I am so grateful for Your Holy Spirit which guides me and teaches me all truth. May Your will be done Father, on earth as it is in Heaven. I love You Jesus and in Your mighty name I pray, amen.