Pensamento:
Existe uma parte egoísta de nós que quer toda a atenção focada em nós e no que temos feito, sacrificado e realizado. Um dos sinais de maturidade espiritual incluido na lista de Paulo aqui, porém, é uma devoção aos nossos irmãos em Cristo. Isso significa que regozijamos genuinamente quando outros recebem honra. De fato, temos mais interesse em honrar outros do que em receber honra para nós mesmos.
Thoughts on Today's Verse...
I love the old saying, "He who toots his own horn plays in a very small band!" A very selfish part of us wants all attention and appreciation focused on what we have done, sacrificed, and accomplished. Christ Jesus told us that if we seek honor and recognition now, we have our reward now, on earth, and we won't receive our reward in heaven (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21). One of the signs of spiritual maturity, however, is what Paul lists here. It's a devotion to others who are our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. This maturity means that we genuinely rejoice when others are honored. We are even more interested in honoring others than receiving honor. That is what devotion to others means. We care more about them being honored than us being honored, and that's living like Christ (Philippians 2:1-11).
Oração:
Querido Deus, meu Pai amoroso, obrigado por me cercar com tantas pessoas espirituais e honráveis. Por favor, ajude-me a ver como eu posso mostrar meu amor, admiração e gratidão a eles a cada dia. No nome de Jesus eu oro. Amém.
My Prayer...
Dear God, my loving Father, thank you for surrounding me with many godly and honorable people. Please help me see ways I can show my brothers and sisters in Christ my love, affirmation, and appreciation. And dear Father, please lead me to your people who need this love, affirmation, and honor. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
