1 Corinthians 4

1 Corinthians 4

Apostles of Christ

It was a timely reminder tonite, during our family devotions on 1 Corinthians, that we not to judge, nor be judged. It is the Lord who judges us, therefore we are not to judge anything before the appointed time of Jesus' return. It is Jesus who will bring to light, everything that is hidden in our hearts, our movtives, our attitudes...everything will be exposed and the darkness will be brought to light.

I am guilty of judging, mostly thinking that I am going ok, whilst sometimes thinking and questioning why a person may act or speak a certain way. Sometimes I may even evaluate someone by their "works" or by their "faith". Truth is, no one is righteous, not one person. It is only by the gracious work of Christ's redemption that we stand before God. For truly, we only deserve death and condemnation, not sonship and an eternal inheritance and to be included in His plan of partnership in Kingdom work.

Please forgive me Lord, for my pride. For not considering others as better than myself. Funny how this was yesterday's sermon as well. I guess God knows I need more than one reminder. Truth is, I am, we are; nothing without God. "For what makes us different from anyone else?" We are all in the same boat. "What do we hve that we hve not received" from God? Then, why do we boast and act like we did not?? Everything comes from the hand of God. It is He who makes all things possible. Not because we are clever, or hardworking, or ingenious, or strategically apt...

The way of the cross is difficult...what makes us think that difficulties and hardship, opposition from the world, even our friends and family, will always approve of our faith, trust and hope in Christ. The way of discipleship, is one of condemnation to die; being made a spectacle; being fools for Christ; being weak; being dishonoured; being hungry and thirsty; being in rags, being brutally treated; being homeless; being ursed; persecuted; slandered; and becoming the scum and refuse of the world.

Lord teach me your way!