True Christian love seeks to share with others and make them happy. It willingly carries the younger Christians, helping them along in their spiritual development. It does not endure them. It encourages them!

Paul shared the two sources of spiritual power from which we must draw if we are to live to help others: the Word of God and prayer. We must confess that we sometimes get impatient with younger Christians, just as parents become impatient with their children.

But the Word of God can give us the “patience and encouragement” we need. Through prayer, we can experience from God the spiritual unity that He alone can give.

Verse for today: “Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up” (Romans 15:2, NIV).

More:  Romans 15:7; 1 John 2:24-25, 28-29; 1 Corinthians 10:32-33.

Action assignment:  Mentally list the names of people who have brought you a measure of joy or happiness. What did they give you or do for you? Thank God for their impact on your life.

Now think of how you can make at least two people happy today. Ask God to make you more sensitive to the needs and desires of those with whom you have contact, even those whom you rarely see.

WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in