Words of Encouragement
August - 21 - 2005
"We belong!" That's what the apostle Paul told us. We're not outsiders or second-class citizens or "Johnny come lately" children of God. Because of grace, we belong! We are part of God's house! The foundation of that house is made up of the apostles and prophets. The cornerstone of that house is Jesus himself. Incredibly, we are also a part of this holy house of God. We belong!
The Scripture reading today is Ephesians 2:19-21.
19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God;
20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone,
21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the LordLet us go to our heavenly Father in Prayer.
LORD God Almighty, thank you for bringing us into your people by grace through faith in Jesus. Thank you for making us a vital part of your house. Forgive us for the times that we have doubted our importance to your cause and awaken in us the realization that we belong to you, to your people, and to your house.
In Jesus' name.
Amen.