Bible Chapter: Romans 15

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    Building people up, that is the beginning of this chapter.  The spiritually strong must help the weak. We are not to be doing things only for our own benefit.  Jesus didn’t come and work simply to please Himself.  Our focus must not simply be on what we want.
    A foundational principle is also spoken of when it says we are encouraged to have a spirit of unity and follow Jesus.  Unity in a local body of believers is so critical to being able to actually do the work of the Lord that the Bible says it is the sign of being a genuine follower.
John 13:35 NLT
“Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
    When believers are fussing with each other over trivial matters they are not doing the work of the Lord and they are not fighting the spiritual battle against the enemy.  We are not to condone sin, but we must, as verse 7 says, “accept one another”.  We must be welcoming and helping of all who fellowship in Christ.  That will help all to grow.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Paul said “I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God”.  He was excited about what God was doing through him.  I need to expect that God will do His work through me.  That does not put me above others in a negative way.  But, I must expect to work for God and I must expect to see Him do His work through me.  If I don’t expect God to use me it becomes a false humility.  This is where spiritual balance comes in.
    In this chapter Paul talked about his plans.  I must have plans and strive to work for the Lord.  I must be willing to step out and make bold plans (with God’s help) so that I don’t just get lazy.  I must trust God for the provision.  I find myself making more plans as I live, plans to do things that sometimes are scary, but do the work God has called me to.  I need to continue to plan and stretch.

3.  How can I help someone?
    I must reach out to people and welcome them.  I must do all I can to see that there is spiritual unity among the body of believers, especially the local church.  May the spirit of unity be very strong.