Weirdos at church.

So, 'church' consists of some pretty cool, wise and awesome people, right?

Then there's those people we don't often talk to—maybe they're too geeky or seemingly arrogant; maybe too introverted or extroverted; maybe they're just poles apart from us in culture or generation. Why be part of this club? There's too much diversity!

Yet, what brings us all together but the gospel? Jesus paid the penalty for all sin by his death, that whoever puts their trust in him receives not only forgiveness, but eternal life and a glorious inheritance with him—there is not a hint of discrimination. Being united as one body, we have also been called to encourage one another daily so that none of us may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness and so drift away from such a great salvation.

When we learn to love one another like this, this diversity becomes glorious for the name of Jesus.
-

The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one.. so that the world may know that you sent me.

John 17:22-23

When it feels like freedom.

The below is a good description of what I fear most when I'm overwhelmed by stress, anxiety and frustration; when my ears become closed to the voice of reason yet very wide open to the voice of my nerves and mass emotions; when I won't give a damn about the world, truth or responsibility.

And, after the storm, amendments may need to be made, apologies may need to be said, and certain requests may need to be offered to God.

Emotions are real. Sin is real. Responsibility is real. We will have to deal with it. But thank God that Jesus died for the church that there may be support, encouragement and friendship.

-

In your anger do not sin;

when you are on your beds,

search your hearts and be silent.

Offer right sacrifices and trust in the LORD.

Psalm 4:4-5

As iron sharpens iron.

'What areas of sin are you most uncomfortable with me asking you about?'

-

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.

James 5:16

A random but well-appreciated text I received today:
Bro, "do not love the world or anything in the world" 1 john 2:15
-

But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called "today," that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

Hebrews 3:13