Endurance and Encouragement

​Romans 15:5 in the CEB version says, "May the God of endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude toward each other, similar to Christ Jesus' attitude."
 
Throughout our lives, there will be times when we feel discouraged and lack motivation. These moments are often caused by difficult experiences and challenges that seem insurmountable. But Romans 15:5 reminds us that believers in Jesus receive three gifts from God.
 
Firstly, God provides us with endurance. When we start feeling tired of doing good or living for God, it's usually because we're motivated by the wrong things. True motivation comes from living for God, not ourselves. Through the Spirit, God gives us the endurance to make good choices and live for Him.
 
Secondly, God encourages us. When we feel discouraged or let down by others, God provides us with lasting encouragement. He reminds us of His love and that we're being transformed. As children of God, we don't need to seek approval or acceptance from others because we're already loved and accepted by Him.
 
Lastly, we can pray for unity of mind with others. This means we should view others as Jesus would, seeing them as loved and cared for by God despite their flaws and mistakes. Instead of causing division, we should work towards unity with each other.
 
Spending time praying for endurance, encouragement, and unity with others is important. If you're feeling fatigued, ask God for the strength to continue doing good for those around you. If you're feeling discouraged, ask God for the encouragement that only He can provide. And most importantly, ask God to give you the same heart and mind as Jesus so that you can unite with others instead of dividing them.
 
Prayer:
God, thank you for loving and serving your people. I want to live a life that honors you, so please help me love and serve your people with the same attitude. Give me opportunities each day to express your love to others and help me to go out of my way to serve those around me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
 
Elder
Greg Thompson