June 4: Avoid Those Who Seek Division
(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Romans is a pretty lengthy letter, and it’s clear Paul took a tremendous amount of time crafting it, ensuring he communicated everything he wanted to communicate to this young church. Toward the end of the letter, he makes one final appeal in Romans 16:17, And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them.
Unity is something worth striving for. For example, there may be some you interact with who regularly share their opinions or perspectives on things, but not be domineering about it. However, there may be others who share their opinions or perspectives on things, and be overly condescending towards you or others who adhere to a different way of thinking. Paul’s response? Stay away from those who seek division.
As Paul writes in Philippians 2:2, …make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.
READING & JOURNALING:
Think of a time when you may have created division instead of seeking unity. What life-lessons did you learn as a result?
Think about it, what are some specific ways that avoiding those who seek division will actually strengthen the unity among Christians?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I know there are some who may claim to seek unity but are actually teaching or saying things that go against some of the teachings of Christ. Continue to provide me with wisdom and discernment so that I may live out Your purpose for my life well. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
The F260 is a Scripture Reading Plan designed to read through the foundational passages of the Bible through a year (September 2019 – August 2020). It is a separate reading from the daily devotional but is included for those who would like to engage with the Scriptures on a deeper level throughout the year.
Read: Matthew 28
Note: Are you looking for a Study Bible to help you engage with the Scriptures at a deeper level? If so, click here for some recommendations.
south ridge blog 