Devotions from James Smith’s book, The Good and Beautiful Community

In the good and beautiful community we are asked to reflect the glory that is ours as His children. This involves encouraging one another, admonishing and watching over one another in love. Also to become involved in specific activities on a regular basis that are growth-producing….like time alone with God, to making friends outside our comfort zone, to meeting regularly with an encouragement partner etc. The Spirit will help us and lead us to use our unique abilities and gifts to bless others. As we offer our gifts and resources to help others, this is a natural outflow, not a law. We are being given opportunities to live out our calling and we can do so with joy and excitement. Paul says, “Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.” Heb. 10:24-25   Let us think of how we can encourage others to love and good deeds and be close to others who do the same for us.