Missing the Obvious
It’s so easy to focus on the non-essentials. We can become so preoccupied with the details we completely miss the big picture. Relationships become fractured when we only focus on the small stuff.
It’s so easy to focus on the non-essentials. We can become so preoccupied with the details we completely miss the big picture. Relationships become fractured when we only focus on the small stuff.
Because of the weak believer’s human tendency to judge those who don’t embrace his or her customs and convictions and also because of the strong believer’s decision to discount judgments passed by those who find fault in his or her expressions of freedom, conflict emerges and persists. The solution? Put grace into action.
God’s desire is that we, His people, fully enjoy our freedom in Christ. However, there must be self-imposed boundaries or we will become self-serving, independent-minded, and careless rebels with no regard for others. The last 11 verses of Romans 14 address this issue.
A joyful disposition comes from God. When He’s in your life you have a deep sense of happiness.
We all need encouragement. Many people are worn down by worry and anxiety and those who seem like they have it all together are often the ones who need encouragement the most.
Though a twin, he was quite the opposite of his younger brother and ultimately became the heartache of the family. Ripped off by his brother and rejected by his family, he couldn’t win, no matter how hard he tried. As we shall soon discover, the Bible pulls no punches. And you may find several places in this story where you can identify with Esau, “the son who couldn’t win.”
Throughout the history of the Church, there have been those who stirred up trouble and caused dissension. Unfortunately, there are always a few who refuse to repent even when confronted. Admittedly, these situations represent one of the more difficult and unpleasant aspects of ministry and the Christian life.
Throughout the history of the church, there have been those who stirred up trouble and caused dissension. Such troublemakers will always exist. To keep the unity that is so vital in a healthy church, those who habitually and persistently sow discord must be confronted, dealt with, and encouraged to repent.
Pastor Chuck Swindoll shares his hard-earned wisdom on this topic based upon Romans 16:17–20. Listen in as he addresses how to respond lovingly yet firmly and how to protect your ministry ground from boars.