Who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 2 Corinthians 1:4
For the Scripture says, “whoever believes in him will not be disappointed.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for whoever will call on the name of the lord will be saved. How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? How will they preach unless they are sent? Just as it is written, “how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news of good things!” Romans 10:11-15
But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus. Romans 3:21-24
Today's thoughts from today's verses:
In our world today there are conditions that exist and needs that people have that are simply overwhelming. At the same time, however, we often find ourselves isolated and insulated from a world in dire straits. We seem to put great effort into protecting ourselves from the conditions of our times not realizing that when we do we often cut ourselves off from those people who have the greatest level of need as the result of experiencing the brunt of those conditions. We need to examine ourselves for the presence of fears that bind us and keep us from impacting our world with the words and deeds of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The gospel is for everyone regardless of the risks that reaching certain ones may present. Possible loss of comfort, dignity and respectability, and security, etc. must not keep us from the very people who most need us.
Today's prayer response from today's thoughts:
Lord, forgive me for being so concerned about what will happen to me that I am blinded to what other people who need you are going through. I see that the risk of someone missing you is a far greater issue than the risk of my involvement. Take away my fears, fill me with compassion and concern, and help me impact my world with the words and deeds of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Amen!
