1 Corinthians 11:30-32 That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. But if we were more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such judgment. Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be finally condemned with the world.
The Lord uses weakness and sickness to help bring us close to Him, so that we may not succumb to eternal death.
Luke 1:4 NIV
…so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.
O Lord help me to know with certainty the truths from Your Word that I already know.
1 Corinthians 10:12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!
When we think we are strong is when we are likely to be most vulnerable. Lord, make my heart and mind always on guard against evil, so that I may do Your will and continue to stand firm in the faith.
Luke 1:3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus.
Like Luke, all of us have a legitimate story to tell about Jesus from our perspective. May I be willing to share mine with others as Luke did.
1 Corinthians 10:6 Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did.
The past actions of others, as well as our own sinful actions from our past, can help keep our hearts focused on God and away from evil.
Luke 1:13 But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard.”
Do I truly believe God hears my prayers, even when they go unanswered for years as the prayers of Zechariah?
1 Corinthians 9:22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.
Befriending sinners is part of what we are called to do. Even when we give all of ourselves to help win others for Christ, some will not believe. May I be encouraged by those who do believe because of the work God enables me to do in the lives of others.
Romans 16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
By leaning on God’s grace the enemy will be crushed by the Lord’s power.
1 Corinthians 8:11 So this weak brother or sister, for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge.
Our actions directly affect others. They can either build people up or destroy and mislead them. Lord, help my actions to always strengthen other believers, especially their relationship with You.
Romans 15:31 Pray that I may be kept safe …
Prayers for safety are biblical. Protect us, Lord.