For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot would say, 'Because I'm not the hand, I'm not part of the body,' it is not therefore not part of the body. If the ear would say, 'Because I'm not the eye, I'm not part of the body,' it's not therefore not part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole were hearing, where would the smelling be? 1 Corinthians 12:14 WEBThe human body is made up of many parts, and each part is made up of many cells, and each cell is made of even smaller parts like chromosomes. All of it works together to make a healthy body, and every part has its own job. It's quite an amazing structure.
The heart pumps blood while the lungs pump oxygen. In their own thoughts, their job is the most important part of their existence. Different parts of the body will never agree on which job is actually most important, because it is certainly theirs. The fact is, they are both right. We need both the heart and lungs for the body to live.
Many times in our walk with Jesus, we will meet other Christians that just don't think like we do. One is deep into politics, another is into mission work, yet another is involved in something else entirely, but it takes all of this to make the body of Christ work.
When we attend our local church, the welcome team greets us at the door, people work at the coffee counter, in the children's church, in the nursery, in the praise team, some run the sound, lighting, projectors, recordings, cameras, another speaks a message, others are on the prayer team. It takes everyone working together to build a healthy community.
As Paul told us, we are all a part of the body of Christ and one part is not more important than another. There is no top or bottom in God's eyes, as we are all His children. Jesus told us that the greatest among you, will be your servant (Mark 10:43, Matthew 23:11). Wherever you find yourself, work like you are working directly for God and you will be rewarded (Colossians 3:23).
Do not get sidetracked by people that try to turn you away from following your own calling, so you can follow theirs. People will live your life for you if you let them, but they are from another part of the body. They cannot do the job that God created for you, nor will they understand your desire for it. Neither can you be satisfied doing what they are meant to do. Each of us are unique in our gifts and our calling in life.
Find what you are passionate about, that seems to come naturally, and follow that. Don't strive to be like someone else. The greatest thing you can do, is be yourself. Serve your heart out wherever you are and God will raise you up in due time. If you are washing dishes, be the best dish washer the world has ever seen, and God may make you the manager.
Prayer: Heavenly Father please put me where I need to be and help me to recognize the gifts that You have placed in my life. Stir me up and wake me up. Guide me onto the path that You have laid out for me and make it so clear that I know that it can only be You, in the name of Jesus Christ I pray.Note: For those interested in capturing or viewing photos of God's creation, here is this week's theme message from Creation Photographers: Mark 7:3-4 "The Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they give their hands a ceremonial washing, holding to the tradition of the elders. When they come from the marketplace they do not eat unless they wash. And they observe many other traditions, such as the washing of cups, pitchers and kettles." - 'Traditions' will be our next fun theme What traditions have you adopted in your home?
Our themes are open for interpretation so get creative! You are also encouraged to post anything else that inspires you as well. My photos this week reflect some of our family traditions: family moments, relaxing / rejuvenating in nature, birding joys, and seeking heart blessings are all integral parts of our lives so have become tradition to us. May your happiest moments become tradition for you and may you see God's blessings daily!Here is the link to participate in this group:
Creation Photographers group > You can subscribe to our daily devotional here <
Yes Lord Jesus, amen
Amen
Amen!!
Amen! Always remember, somehow God is always there.
Amen! that was a great analogy and its so true...be yourself...be what God made "You" to be, follow your calling.
Prayer: Heavenly Father please put me where I need to be and help me to recognize the gifts that You have placed in my life. Stir me up and wake me up. Guide me onto the path that You have laid out for me and make it so clear that I know that it can only be You, in the name of Jesus Christ I pray.Thank you for guidng us through each day, thank you for always providing and protecting us in our life journey... over the past few years I have felt you holding us through pain and joy....thank you for allowing your presence to be seen and feltby this family!! Thank you for amking sure we stay focued on you. Amen >>Thank you God bless
Thank you dear God. Praise the Lord. Amen.
Thank You Father for your guidance. Amen
Thank you God for your love.Please guide us and let our lives be for you. Amen
Amen Lord! Father please put me where you need me according to the gift that you have given me.
Amen! Father, guide me onto Your path and will for my life.
Great devotional. A message I am sure will all needed to hear. God bless you and sister Sylvia. Have a great day.
Amen. Lord lead and guide me to the purpose you have for my life in Jesus Holy name Amen. ❤
Heavenly Father I thank You for all You have done for me and I need You to lead me where I have to be. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Thank you Pastor, excellent devotional. God bless.
I KNOW I ALWAYS ADDMIRED RED SKELTON AND JERRY LEWIS, ALL MY LIFE I'VE TRYED TO BE FUNNY, NO PROFAINATY JUST FUNNY. I ALL WAYS THOUGHT IT WAS BETTER TO LAUGH THAN CRY ANY DAY , I KNOW I'M NOT RED OR JERRY BUT I LIKED THERE IDEAS ,LAUGHTER CAN HEAL, PRAISE THE LORD.
I like this. We need the laughing, joking Christians. Too many people see us as stoic, dumpy faced, serious, and no fun. Doesn't help them to want to "have what we have"! And a few months ago I went through an illness that's left me with some physical pain and emotions dealing with it. But when someone makes me laugh, oh how I completely forget about any pain and I'm so joyful all inside! It truly is very good medicine!
Amen, Sandra and Melody, laughter is indeed amazing medicine! Melody, that is so true, that some in His body seem to think that God has no sense of humor, but I'm pretty sure He would have to have the best humor to deal with our daily foibles ;). Praying for healing over you too, sister <3!
Amen and Amen! Thank you Pastor Dion for today's message!
Amen!
Father, help me recognize the gifts in me, Lird stir up those gifts so I can do your will. In Jesus name I pray, Amen. Thank you Father.