3:6 – Differences Bring Strength.

#faithbites #faithjourney differences

Sometimes we focus so much on how different we are from one another that we forget how much in common we have. As I dig deeper into my faith, and the faith of others, I see so many similarities. I also see differences that can make us stronger. Maybe it’s approaches to teaching others or perhaps how to reach outsiders. Those differences can add to what we have rather than take away from who we are.

If we look at metallurgy, metals that are the strongest, have other metals mixed in. Those add to the value.

If we look at genetics, those with the purest genes have the most defects. Diversity strengthens the outcome.

Let us focus on those differences that strengthen us in our goal to be more Christ-like.

Scripture

• Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptised by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.” – 1 Corinthians 12:12-14
• My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favouritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, ‘Here’s a good seat for you,’ but say to the poor man, ‘You stand there’ or ‘Sit on the floor by my feet,’ have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” – James 2:1-4

Reflection

We are all different. Each denomination and person has something to add. Rather than fear it, examine it. Before we adopt or toss it out, look at scripture. What does scripture tell us? If its Biblical it is good. If it isnt, it isn’t worth adopting. Practices may help to share the word of Christ with others. Approach with an open mind. You never know how God is working through those people he puts in your life. Listen to them, pray, and make a decision.

Change is hard but just because we always did something one way, doesnt mean that is right. Also just because always did something one way, doesnt mean it’s wrong.

Challenge

Be open to other perspectives. Don’t dismiss them or adopt them just because they are different. Study them, research them, and pray.

Prayer

Lord, help us to be be open minded and true to your word. Help us see the beauty in what others do and adopt those practices. Help us see what isn’t in your plan and ignore them. Give us the discernment and strength to know the difference. In your name, Amen.