Studied over the last few weeks was Paul’s appeal to the status we have in Christ; a member of the body of believers using their individual strengths for the purpose of fulfilling God’s will.

By yielding to God’s will for our life, we find our place in this world.  We can move forward with excitement and live each day to the fullest. We can marvel at each sunrise and each sunset, the flowers blooming in the spring, the birds singing, and the children growing. We can step ahead with the power of the Spirit giving unlimited might for each hour, delight for each day, and a future filled with hope.

With the power of the Spirit, we are equipped to love our neighbor as ourselves today, we let others know about God’s love for them. We encourage them, appreciate what they do, and give them a lift. We are concerned about their safety, their property, and their spiritual growth.

We fail as a family, as a community, or a nation if we ignore one basic fact; the power we have in Christ holding us together as one. Although congregations and individuals may differ in conviction and practice, there is one common thread that binds us. It is the power of Christ in what we believe, what we do, and how we live.

We are bound together by the peace and joy of the Holy Spirit. The idea is to have an attitude of kindness by focusing on the big issues that bring us together rather than the small things that divide us. What we make happen for others will be given back to us so when we give a smile, a smile will be given back. When we act kind, we receive kindness from others.

The reading plan below will be used as I share over the next few posts and finish up the study of the book of Romans. It’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Him as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day with Him amazing!

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Romans 15:1-13
What is to characterize Christians’ relationships with each other? What are the obligations of those strong in faith to those weak in faith? What is the source of your joy and peace?

Romans 15:14-33
What is Paul’s assessment of the virtues of the Roman Christians? In what ways does Christ act through the apostle? What are the results? In what situations does the God of peace give you peace?

Romans 16:1-16
How does Paul show personal concern for the Romans? What is the place of letters and greetings in your life? What is your relation to the church in the world?

Romans 16:17-27
Why does Paul warn against certain types of people? In what ways can you be wise and guileless today? How is strength related to the gospel? How is God’s wisdom, purpose, and mystery related?

Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God.

Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts

Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God: A Daily Study Guide to the Entire Bible. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1978. Print. 

“Sermons.” Sermons | FUMC Waco. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://fumcwaco.org/resources/sermons/>.

“Bible.” The Bible – The Word of God – ChristNotes. N.p., n.d. Web. 2017. <http://www.christianity.com/bible/>.

Nicholes, Lou. “Recent Commentaries.” Family-Times.net – Devotional Commentary Index. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.family-times.net/commentary/>.

“Google Images.” Google Images. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.google.com/imghp?hl=en&tab=wi&authuser=0&ei=8IipWNPmOoPBmwHIpZ2ACQ&ved=0EKouCBcoAQ>.

“BibleGateway.” BibleGateway.com: A Searchable Online Bible in over 150 Versions and 50 Languages. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.biblegateway.com/>.