1. What word or phrase in today's reading speaks to your heart?
(v. 9) "we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will." (NIV)
(v. 23-25) "You must not be moved away from the hope brought to you by the Good News that you heard...There are things Christ must still suffer through his body, the church. I am accepting, in my body, my part of these things that must be suffered...because God gave me a special work to do that helps you." (NCV)
2. How does today's reading directly relate to your life right now?
(v. 9) D3 and fellow brothers and sisters in general.
(v. 23-25) current situation. individuals and how they feel about their local church.
3. How is God calling you to respond to what you've read today?
(v. 9) ALWAYS pray for others. both believers and non-believers.
(v. 23-25) stick it out with NJBC. Continue to glorify God by staying regardless of differences.
4. Your own additional thoughts/meditations:
(v. 9) it's a beautiful and encouraging verse. Praying for others besides yourself is a way of being self-less and loving. No one can ever be 100% soaring for God. We encourage each other by being there for each other whether it's physically being present or just through prayer.
(v. 23-25) This is exactly what my D3 always discusses. The reason we're still here when many people have already walked out. This verse answers and confirms my reason for staying. Being reminded the only reason has been God and never the differences I had with the people. All personal feelings and perceptions aside, His Word and Truth is being shared. It won't aways be a smooth ride, but we are all part of God's body. We all have our own purpose and "special work" from Him, so we should NEVER lose focus of that. He is the head and leader of all, so until I am called to serve elsewhere, I'm here to stay. With Him ruling in our hearts, we should all be find regardless of the good and bad circumstances that come our way.
