Application: One of the challenges as a pastor is trying to effectively lead and shepherd people towards a common goal. It can get a bit overwhelming because everyone is so unique and in different places in life. But at the end of the day, I keep coming back to the "bread and butter" of basic discipleship. One of the challenges from this passage is making sure to encourage those who are a bit out of sorts with their identity in Christ to redeem and reclaim their true identity in Christ. Having a "spiritual inferiority complex" is not from God and thus needs to be dealt with quickly. I know that I often find myself comparing myself or beating myself up for not living up to some standard that I set for myself. As I shared during our Soul Care time on Sunday Morning the question I often ask is "what's wrong with me?" I know that this is not from God and that everyone needs to counter the lies of the Enemy with the truth that is found here in 1 Corinthians. At the same time, it is also important to assume a posture of humility at all times and not allow judgement and self-righteousness to reign in our hearts. It is very easy to sit on the sidelines and critique others within the Church and the broader Body of Christ and not become a part of the solution. This too is not from God and needs to be repented of and removed from our lives.
Prayer: God help me to be an instrument of encouragement and edification as well as prophetic voice of truth and rebuke this week in all my dealings with people.
