You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19 (NLT)
When it comes to family don't believe the lie that says – "I don't care".
For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. 2 Corinthians 5:14-20a (NIV)
- Through Christ, God removed every obstacle to reconciling with us except us.
- A key to understanding our reconciliation to God is this phrase – "In spite of...".
- Everyday Heroes forgive as they've been forgiven.
Action Plan: Do you have a lost or strained friendship or relationship with a family member? Christ has forgiven you, and you are called to model his forgiveness to others. Reach out to that person; take the first step towards forgiveness and reconciliation. Share with your Small Group how God has blessed you as you seek reconciliation.
Action Plan: If you are stuck with a grudge that won't seem to go away, maybe it's time to seek counseling. Connect with Saddleback's free counseling ministry by going to saddleback.com/counseling.
Action Plan: If you have not finished taking CLASS 101-401, make a commitment to continuing on the pathway this summer. Look for a CLASS offering near you by going to saddleback.com/class.
Doable Discipleship: Make sure to check out the latest episode of Doable Discipleship by subscribing to the podcast or going to saddleback.com/maturity. This week's episode looks at what it means to love God with all of your soul.
