Devotional for September 16

The Excellency of Dwelling Together in Unity

133 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;
3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore. Psalm 133 (KJV)

The Morning Exhortation

Not everybody who steps into the gym will become, or even wants to become, a bodybuilding champion. The beautiful thing is that everyone who lifts weights consistently will receive benefits. In the same way, don’t think only full-time ministers are called to serve the Lord. The most basic way for every believer to serve the Lord is by doing the small everyday things for God that we used to do only for ourselves. We, the elect of God, are called to such devotion. As one reads this, the inner tempter will likely whisper: “How do you know you are among the elect of God?” This is a favorite tactic of the serpent first recorded in the book of Genesis when he asked Eve about the fruit in the garden. There is no need to entertain such thoughts, nor to doubt the fact of your election. It is already been settled before the foundation of the world. If you have chosen to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He came into the world to save us, you are called by God. Only those who refuse to believe the gospel leave their calling by God still in doubt. Cast down every thought, no matter how small, that is contrary to the word of God, and you will give the enemy no place to stand. Resist the inner tempter by keeping your faith in God firm, and the peace of God that surpasses understanding will rule in your heart.

Question

How can we stop judging others?

Answer

Catch, hold and cast away (Scripture). Load, fire and reload (Scripture). Sitting as a judge comparing others with self is a deadly cup of hemlock (Scripture). The royal law is to look at others only as being equally worthy of love (Scripture). Expressing love is the opposite of passing judgment (Scripture).  Bless in thought first, then in deed (Scripture).

The Prayer Appointed for This Week from the Book of Common Prayer

O God, because without you we are not able to please you, mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule my heart; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.