Living in Community

I've been thinking a lot about living in community. The church of Acts did it. Do we? We strive to at Biola. Especially in ResLife. I hope to influence my residents to live in community.

2 Cor 13:11
"Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you"

I think that's pretty much the key to living in community.

Rejoice. First and foremost. We have been blessed beyond measure, yet we grumble.

Aim for restoration. How many of us have broken friendships? Family members we don't talk to? Friends who left the church long ago out of some dividing disagreement? It's sad that we give up on relationship so easily. Take note that Paul doesn't say, "restore every broken relationship", simply "aim for restoration". Aim for it, I think God will do the rest.

Comfort one another. When you know of a person who is in pain, comfort them. Comforting someone can be as simple as a hug or a listening ear. We're not to fix each other's problems, just comfort.

Agree with one another. This is probably the hardest for me personally. I like to disagree. But Paul instructs us to agree. Put aside your difference and just agree.

Live in peace. This is the ultimate goal. I think my generation thrives on drama, but that's exactly why this is important. We need to learn to live in peace. Give up on drama and fighting and just be in peace.

and the God of love and peace will be with you. What an amazing promise.

Spiritual Gifts

After Jesus died, he rose again and spent some more time with his disciples. When he ascended again to Heaven, he promised the Holy Spirit would come to them. It fell upon them on the Day of Pentecost during a time of prayer. Amazing things happened that day. People were healed, the believers were able to speak in foreign tongues and many were added to their number that day.

The Holy Spirit lives in each of Christ's followers today. I know he lives in me. What I don't know is what he has gifted me with. I've had many thoughts of what it could be over my life. Interpretation of the scriptures, teaching, evangelism, hospitality, encouragement, knowledge. All of these are things I enjoy and can be good at.

I want to know what God is doing in my life. I thought I knew, but now I don't. I need to practice trust. I need to pray and meditate on the scriptures. God wants the place of honor in my life. I don't even know what I've been giving it to. Something much less important than the Lord of all.

Currently Studying: Acts