Independent

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July 4
Happy Independence Day
Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.
While we celebrate our freedom as Americans, when we look at the word independent in relationship to our role as brothers and sisters in Christ, we realize we were not created to be independent of one another, but to work together as a body, offering support, encouragement and guidance. Looking at the wooden figures in the picture above we get a visualization of "holding one another up".

Independent-" not requiring or relying on something else; not looking to others for one's opinions or for guidance in conduct, or care ."

Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
2 Corinthians 13:10-12

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:11

Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you love me? He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep." John 21:16

Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Galatians 6:1

I can remember telling our children years ago that when they stepped out the door each day, they not only wore our sir name on their jersey, they wore the name "Christian" and they represented a team. Do you have a teammate who needs encouragement today?



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