Paradoxical Reciprocals

Daily Word - Jan.02.2019 - Pastor Sheliah

The Kingdom of God functions as a "paradox" to what many people consider the "normal way" of life. But we have good reason to think, act and display our lives in a different manner.

Because we have been forgiven (by Christ), we forgive others, even when they do not apologize, ask forgiveness or even seem to care about an injustice or hurtful act toward us. The apostle wrote this in Colossians.3:13 -- Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you."

Before you ever had a thought about asking forgiveness of your sin, Christ died to pay the price for your sin. He is the precious Sacrifice for you, and His Blood redeems and washes you fully clean.

When we read Ephesians 5:21, we see another reciprocal standard of Kingdom Living: "Submit to one another, out of reverence for Christ."

We're to give and receive 'one another' ... not by force of our will power, but because of His Love that He wants to display through us - His Sons!

Here's a brief list of New Testament "one another" instructions to His Sons for Kingdom

Living:

* "...love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another." (John.13:34)

* "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preferene to one another in honor..." (Romans.12:10)

*"...encourage one another and build up one another, just as you are doing."

(1 Thessalonians.5:11)

*"...be kind to each other, tenderhearted, loving one another." (Ephesians.4:32)

*"...forgive one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." (Ephesians.4:32)

*"...as each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." (1Peter.4:10)

* And - I saved the Best for last -- "Greet one another with a holy kiss!!" (Romans.16:16)

Yes! These are opposites to the standard in this world - to what those who are "not in Christ." But these are the real-deal and can only be demonstrated in our lives when we allow Holy Spirit to fill us with His Love and Power!

This Kingdom Life is the Best Life you can ever have, because Christ has given you Freedom, and He alone changes a heart of stone to make us LIving Vessels of His Grace and Truth! What a paradoxical reciprocation we live! ~ Shelia Hart Artt

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