We who are strong ...

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We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn't live to please himself. As the Scriptures say, “The insults of those who insult you, O God, have fallen on me.” Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled. May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. -Romans 15:1-5 NLT

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These verses remind me that peace comes at the hands of the strong. Those who are confident in the Lord do not feel a need to constantly defend themselves or attack the beliefs of others. People who are spiritually strong demonstrate God's love for others in patience and encouragement. These who pump spiritual iron do it for others and not for themselves - their prayer and study of the scriptures is not to help themselves but to help those who struggle.

Corrie ten Boom was a woman who was strong in the Lord. Her faith was refined in the death camps of Nazi Germany. In such a place she watched her sister die. Years later Corrie was speaking at an event when her strength in the Lord was tested. One of her old prison guards approached her asking for forgiveness. What would she do? In an act of faith and courage Corrie reached out her hand in forgiveness. Only the strong in the Lord can forgive.

In my weakness make me strong Lord. Lead me in ways that strengthen my love for you and for those in my life.

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