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DAY 2 OF 7

In the Bible...

The apostle Paul talks about the Church functioning like a body with Christ as the head. And just like a human body has hands and feet, each person in the church—the Body of Christ—has unique gifts. They can contribute to the vibrant life of God’s community. Together, we are the hands and feet of Jesus in the world today.

In Romans 12:4-5, Paul says:

"Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other."

We are Christ’s body and each one of us is unique and important. Being in community strengthens you and blesses the people you love and serve. It is a very good thing to serve one another—to bless and be blessed.

Loving and serving others is wonderful, but sometimes challenging! In the body of Christ, we all have the same, beautiful assignment. Grace flows when we serve others in the Church and we follow Jesus’ loving, sacrificial example.

In Philippians 2:1-2, the apostle Paul calls God’s people to a different kind of community. He says…

"Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose."

We have to understand that the Lord of all creation was born as a helpless baby to humble peasants. He didn’t sit on a jeweled throne or demand the attention He deserved. He came to serve and to lay His life down.

This doesn’t mean that Jesus was weak and powerless.

It shows that love and servanthood are actually more powerful than fear and control. When we serve through the local and global church, we’re following Jesus’ example.

Will you pray with me?

Thank You, Lord, for the gift of community where I can belong and grow. Give me the strength, wisdom, and insight to participate with the Church in bringing You glory, Lord. Help me as I learn to share all of life’s joy and grief with the family of God. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

About this Plan

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The life of faith is not meant to be lived in isolation. As followers of Jesus, we are part of a community, diverse in our preferences and purposes, but unified by Christ. Join this 7-day devotional with Andrew and Wendy Palau, and let God reveal your belonging and purpose in the family of God.

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We would like to thank Luis Palau Association for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://share.hopewithgod.com/radio