Redeeming the Times by Upping Your Game – Romans 13:11-14
And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not…
The Simple Truths of Spiritual Success – Romans 13:8-10
Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. –Parallel verses:John 13:12-17When…
A Rescue Mission Perspective – Romans 13:1-7
Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the…
Making Beautiful Music Together – Romans 12:15-16
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. I had the privilege of growing up in a house with some gifted vocalists: my mom, older sister, and a couple of older brothers. My youngest brother was the most accomplished of us all, singing opera professionally. I also like to sing. After…
Blessed to Love My Enemies – Romans 12:14, 17-21
Bless those who persecute you [who cause you harm or hardship]; bless and do not curse [them].Never repay anyone evil for evil. Take thought for what is right and gracious and proper in the sight of everyone. If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for God’s wrath [and His judicial righteousness]; for it is written [in Scripture], “Vengeance is Mine, I…
Giving and Sharing Leads to Seeing God Work and Bless Us – Romans 12:13
Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. In looking back over the last 49 years, I have been blessed by many who have shared with me and practiced hospitality. In the rough times, when I was in need, this meant the world to me. My Uncle John and Aunt Sandi are famous for this and welcomed all kinds of family members to stay with them and have always been extremely generous with their…
The Growing Process: Which Phase are You In? – Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope,patient in affliction,faithful in prayer. When we look at a vegetable plant, take for instance a tomato plant, there are typically three phases of growth. Phase one is underground. The seed, once planted, germinates and starts to sprout. This growth is unseen, though a gardener must trust it is happening. This is like prayer. We are called to pray. What is actually happening when we pray is a bit mysterious. But we must trust…
My Overriding Passion – Romans 12:11
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Honeybees are a very interesting insect. They pollenate the flowers around them and produce honey. Now they work hard and have a mission, but one thing overrides their daily honey-making and pollinating — even at the risk of their own life — the protection of the queen bee and the eggs. They will fight ‘til the death, because when they sting you, they actually…
Devotion, Honor, Love … We Are Called and Strengthened for These – Romans 12:10
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. We have some pretty great examples around us of “devotion” that brings forth life. Take a baby: a man and a woman come together and the wife becomes pregnant. Sometimes, this first step can take lots of effort and be full of trials. Then, the woman cares for this new life in her womb and the man cares for the woman and her new and…