Sunday Words of Encouragement August 14, 2016

We enjoyed another lovely Sunday morning. Our Sunday School teacher reviewed Romans 8 from the Message. We discussed Paul’s message to focus on God rather than ourselves.

Then we got to welcome our new Pastor who presented a good sermon on working together and unity. He noted that when teams work together, big things take place; things happen fast.Each person in a congregation comes in with their own personality and preferences. Can a church work together with all different preferences? The mission shouldn’t be complicated. The simple mission of church is to love God and love people. Colossians 1:1- 6 and Colossians 3:1-17
[…for you died to this life…and …put on a new nature…]

14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

The sermon point summarized: When all of our assumptions and preferences are stripped away, it is Jesus, and Him crucified, that bonds us together in unity.

At the foot of the cross, the ground is level. We must be committed to unity. We need to remember to build and protect unity through our actions and speech all week long. Then, together, we can be used to reach the lost.

I chose this encouraging song for today:
All the People Said Amen!

Verses for Today:
Colossians 3: 12-15 (NIV)
12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
 
I give thanks for the spirit of love and unity. Lord, help me to share it each day.