The Fellowship of the Believers

Read Acts 2: 42-47 (NIV)

They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42

Whatever happened to just doing the basics? Has the word "basics" become a bad word? That does not seem to be the message given to us in God's word.

God's message is simple yet life transforming. How often do you read about the disciples seeking to discover the latest method for church planting. They followed the plan that Christ taught. How often do we follow these same basics?

How would it effect the world if the church began doing just the basics? Even though doing the basics doesn't seem relevant to our post-modern society Christians have argued that the Bible is relevant for every age.

There is a movement calling believers to discover the joy of just doing the basics. Simple Church is an attempt to return to the basics of the New Testament and its' message of hope for the future. God gives us a glimpse of the possibilities whenever his children are willing to just do the basics.

Prayer

Heavenly Father thank you for the salvation you have given me through grace. Help me to get back to the basics so that in all I do I bring honor and glory to you. Amen.

Thought for the Day

"Don't be afraid to give your best to what seemingly are small jobs. Every time you conquer one it makes you that much stronger. If you do the little jobs well, the big ones tend to take care of themselves." Dale Carnegie

Prayer Focus God's Workers

Counting the Cost

Read Luke 9:23-27

And he said unto all, If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. - Luke 9:23 (ASV)

I think about the words, deny self, in this verse and go down the path of self-recrimination. When have I ever denied myself? Sure on occasion I deny myself that second plate of food. I even on occasion deny myself some sleep so I can stay up and watch my favourite show on TV. Somehow I don’t think that is what the verse is saying.

Taking up ones’ cross brings the image of a nail I was given during a discipleship course. I was asked to reflect on what it would feel like to be nailed to a cross. I have never been able to fully comprehend the magnitude of taking up ones’ cross.

Following Jesus seems to be a redundant part of the verse. If you are doing everything else are you not following Jesus? I have thought on that question and have been forced to reflect on what it truly takes to be a faithful and obedient follower of Jesus Christ.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for speaking through the actions of those that truly obey you and your word. It is through their example that I continue to learn, to have my faith stretched and to be encouraged to persevere in trying to follow you. Amen.

Thought For The Day

The journey will cost but it is worth the price.

Prayer Focus

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