Unity. Liberty. Love.

2 Timothy 3:^16-17 “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”

Our maxim as a people is, in the essentials we have unity, in the nonessentials we have liberty, and in all things, we show love. In the nonessentials of our beliefs, we have liberty. Romans 14:^1,4,12,&22 “Accept other believers who are weak in faith, and don’t argue with them about what they think is right or wrong… Who are you to condemn someone else’s servants? Their own master will judge whether they stand or fall. And with the Lord’s help, they will stand and receive his approval… Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God… You may believe there’s nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are those who don’t feel guilty for doing something they have decided is right.”

We often want to force other people into the moulds of our convictions. But as a people, we do not do that. We accept other believers, we accept other people, even if they are weak in faith. God is saying do not argue and tag people in the mould of what you think is right or wrong. It is none of your business, it is above your pay grade, it is not in your league, it is not your call to condemn someone else’s servant. Step out of that zone and leave it alone. If it is a non-essential, then we have liberty. If you want to cover your hair in church? God bless you. But do not force all of us to cover our hair to church. If you want to wear a decent skirt to church? God bless you!

But do not force the rest of us to wear skirts to church. Some of us prefer to wear trousers and that is just how it is. So, in the essentials we have unity. In the nonessentials we have liberty. In all things, we show love. We show love in all things. 1 Corinthians 13:² “If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing.” And as we go through life, there are things that define people. We will look at five of such things.

The first is Circumstances. Unfortunately, people let the circumstances they go through, define them. However, the truth is circumstances change. No matter how tough your life is right now, it is going to change, and things will get better. Life is in circles, good times do not last forever, and bad times also do not last forever. So, if you are going through a tough time, do not worry, it will change. If you are going through a good time, fantastic, begin to prepare. That is how to have a consistent life. You prepare when it is good so that you can withstand the tough times.

Prayer: Father, as You reveal Your heart to me, empower me to consistently walk in step with You, in Jesus Mighty Name. Amen!