All In Daily Devotion March 18 We All Have a Part to Play in God’s Program

 First Redeemer Church

We All Have a Part to Play in God’s Program

 

“But even more, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are necessary.  And those parts of the body that we think to be less honorable, we clothe these with greater honor, and our unpresentable parts have a better presentation.  But our presentable parts have no need            of clothing. Instead, God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the less honorable, so that there would be no division in the body, but that the members would have the same concern for each other. So if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it;                   if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.”                                                                   1 Corinthians 12:22-26

 

God designed His people to function as parts of a whole. We do not usually pause to consider the body of Christ unless we are amazed at its cohesiveness or shocked by its dysfunction. It is worthy of our attention at every moment. It is there we dare to revel today. 

The picture is beautiful. Joined to Christ in salvation, we are living stones founded upon our Cornerstone. His Spirit equips each member with various gifts, so the entire body builds itself in love to edify His people and further His church.  

It calls for utter dependence on Him. 

It requires a complete surrender to His plan. 

It takes great courage. 

 

We too quickly measure ourselves by comparing our possessions. We either feel small and insignificant or superior and arrogant. Neither is helpful.  We have no room for measurement.  Envy and pride accomplish nothing. 

 

I wonder if you would resolve now to use God’s gifts to you to serve His people.  Together, we might encourage the one walking to our left and right to do the same. 

We are meant to walk and work together, not on our own. Not one of us is better; all are equally important in God’s plan. There is none too old or young, too new or seasoned.  We each matter to the whole. 

Feet with no eyes stumble. 

Mouths with no hands are useless. 

It goes on and on. 

 

We are accountable for what is not our own. We must steward the gifts God has given and, together, be the whole. He uses imperfect people to accomplish what only He can. His is a power beyond our own.  

 

His church has a mission yet to be fulfilled. One day our role will be complete, and He will call us home. Until that day, let’s refuse to bury His good gift, so glory falls into place right where it belongs. 

 

Our Master has given us all we have.

Who are we to withhold anything from Him? 

We’re All In. 

o   God, thank You for Your plan, Your church, and Your people.

o   Forgive us for assuming others will carry what we are meant to carry and for not intentionally using the gifts You have given to us.

o   Help us bravely follow You in the ways You lead so we, together, build Your Kingdom.

o   Help us walk in service and love so that Your body is built up and encouraged. 

o   Give us the opportunity to joyfully bring You glory in our community and our world.