August 17, 2020 – Romans 15:4-5

For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus. Romans 15:4-5.

The first verse tells us the way to achieve  endurance and encouragement to believe and to trust God when the hard times come.   The difficult times come through the voice of the chaotic world that draws our attention with lies and hatred to confuse our minds.  It is the strength and peace of focusing on what is true and pure we are at peace.   Think about these things.  What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8b-9. 

The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are One.  John 17:22.

Dear Lord,  may we be one in Jesus, as in His Prayer to God the Father,  I in them and You in me, that they may become perfectly One, so that the world may know that You sent me and loved them even as You loved me.  Only then will we know the riches of Your Love.  I pray in the name of Jesus.  Amen.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  Matthew 11:28-29.

That together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you,  for the glory of God.  Romans 15:6-7.