Better Together

Every teenager shares a common trait: their desire to be autonomous and to establish themselves as capable of doing things apart from their parents. They crave to prove they can do it “on their own,” that they are “grown-ups” and can handle everything that comes their way. 

There’s nothing wrong with this. In fact, it’s quite a healthy part of growing up, but it becomes toxic when an individual desires to “do it all” and “be it all” outside of the biblical principle of community, where this trait becomes harmful and a thorn of stubborn pride. 

If we live in the Spirit, we are constantly aware of and recognize our need for a Savior — and each other. 

The Lord has equipped each of us with spiritual gifts and talents that, when combined with those of other believers, help advance the Kingdom and bring glory to God. Individually, we may be able to do a little bit of this, but when we come together as a community, the power of the resurrected Lord is magnified by our living, working, supporting, encouraging, and recognizing the unique skill sets he has gifted to each of us. 

We are all placed on this earth with a purpose. All of us, no matter how young or old we are, have something to offer in order to spread the love of God. He values us all deeply as his precious children. So then, let us love and cherish each other deeply and strive to live in unity and peace with one another. 

Father, I thank you that when you adopted me as your child, I became part of your forever family. Thank you for the comfort, encouragement, guidance, and love we are able to offer one another because you live in us by your Spirit. Show me how to better live and work together with other Christians, to your glory.

Throughout This Day: Thank God often that the resurrected Christ lives in you and in each Christian by his Spirit, enabling all of us to work together for his glory.