God put our bodies together in such a way that even the parts that seem the least important are valuable. He did this to make all parts of the body work together smoothly, with each part caring about the others. If one part of our body hurts, we hurt all over. If one part of our body is honoured, the whole body will be happy. Together you are the body of Christ. Each one of you is part of his body. 1 Corinthians 12: 24b-27 [CEV]
You are part of the body of Christ - when the body is attacked, as can happen in a period of transition like in our church currently, there is a danger that parts of the body can become broken or injured. Satan seeks to divide, disrupt, destruct and frustrate the healthy body. A very small part of the body can cause a very large discomfort - just think of a toothache, back ache or the pain caused by a small splinter in your finger. The whole body hurts at such times.
Are you in conflict with another part of the body? - ask God to reveal to you how you can restore the rightful relationship. At this time we need every part of the body - let no parts be damaged, injured or removed from the body. We must seek to preserve the unity of the Body. Over the last few years many parts of the body have been vanished as people have departed. In many cases, these people have landed safely in another church and prosper there - my heart is grieved, however, by others who have not found a replacement for the fellowship they had with us. In this case the "transplant" has not been successful - and we need to regrow or attach another body part to make us complete and effective. I pray that these people would be protected and restored to fellowship with other Christians and that the fire of the Spirit would not go out in their lives.
We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 [NIV]
Lord, we are your body parts - restore and heal our injuries and bring us back to fitness that we might be more effective for you. Help us to trust you and build your kingdom. In Jesus name, Amen.
Dave MacLellan
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