[Click the Scripture reference above to read online.]
The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!"
And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!"
1 Corinthians 12:21
Believers in Jesus Christ need one another.
This is often a hard concept for us who live in the civilized western world where we are called to be independent and make it on our own. To need someone else can be humiliating. Many would rather die than ask for help. The lie of self-sufficiency is pervasive in our culture.
The truth is: WE NEED ONE ANOTHER!
The church's role in the world is to reveal, be, the body of Christ to the world. There is no single individual who can fill Jesus's shoes: reflect His character, power, and love to the world perfectly and completely. We are insufficient as individuals.
But, when we all come together before Him, filled with humility, thanksgiving, and grace, willing to use the gifts He's given us, in the way He calls us to use them, then we begin to adequately reflect who He is to a dark hurting world.
When we submit to Him, His Spirit, His Way, we become powerful! Together as one. Never on our own.
Too often we let our pride get in the way of what He is trying to do through His church. We refuse to accept our need for others. We refuse to use the gifts given to us because we want someone else's. We look down on those with lesser gifts or cast judgment on the use of their gifts.
In order to be who He calls us to be --- His Body --- we have to lay down pride. Accept our dependence. And submit obediently to His will and way.
Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times I've allowed pride to keep me
from fulfilling the role You have prepared for me. Forgive me
of judgmental attitudes and insecurity. Forgive me for not embracing
my need for others. Today, Lord, I humble myself before You
and surrender to Your call on my life. I long to see Your Church
reflect Your glory to a world that desperately needs You.
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