Make sure that no one misses out on God’s grace. Make sure that no root of bitterness grows up that might cause trouble and pollute many people. [Hebrews 12:15 CEB]
God's grace is a communal phenomenon. When grace is given to one it affects us all. A life transformed transforms other lives. Yet some think that grace, amazing as it is, is a purely personal matter. These embrace the idea that salvation is 'personal' and are blind to a greater grace.
Consequentially, some do not understand that a lack of experienced grace can pollute a spiritual community. We need the grace given to others to confront us about things like unforgiveness and selfishness. Such grace can cleanse the atmosphere of spiritual pollution.
Help us Lord to be agents of grace that cleanse our communities of spiritual pollution.
... this devotion is part of a series from the book of Hebrews.
No grace in the Christian community can be so toxic. Sometimes the attitude of "be like us" can quench the Spirit and drive people away...even "Good Christians"
ReplyDeleteStruggling with some of that at our church right now. All the right words and all the right projects and events....but people and their feelings and ways of doing things can be hurt in the process. Lots of prayer needed for the church and for my attitude too. I don't want to be planting a seed of bitterness and unrest.
Wise words Sue. Thanks so much for sharing.
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