On Sunday, we noticed how the Bible encourages us not only to draw near to God, but to the rest of God's people too. Notice again some of the "One Another" passages that had been mentioned:
"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves" (Romans 12:10).
"Encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace" (2 Corinthians 13:11).
"Serve one another humbly in love" (Galatians 5:13).
"Be kind and compassionate to one another" (Ephesians 4:32).
"Submit to one another" (Ephesians 5:21).
"Bear with each other and forgive one another" (Colossians 3:13).
"Encourage one another" (1 Thessalonians 4:18).
"Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters" (Hebrews 13:1).
"Love one another deeply, from the heart" (1 Peter 1:22).
"Offer hospitality to one another" (1 Peter 4:9).
All of these "One Another" passages have one thing in common: they are an expression of unity in Christ.
Unity in Christ, by the way, is foundational to church life. In John 17, Jesus prayed that the church would be "one," and it's out of that "oneness" that we come alongside each other to actually live as the church—with devotion, service, and great love for each other.
Ask yourself today, "How can I be more and more committed to that kind of oneness?" Is there someone to encourage? Someone to forgive (Or ask for forgiveness) and make peace with? Someone to serve? Someone who needs your compassion? Someone who needs your hospitality? Someone who needs the love of Jesus through you?
Pray and see who God might draw you to this week... and draw near to that person.
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