This was so perfect for me this morning. As we grow and learn we develop and mature, with that maturity our life should shine so people see Jesus in us. When that happens our focus is glorifying God and with that glory comes us doing what we can to build people up in the Lord. When people see us being different and not falling into the traps of this world or the fears of life they can see hope that is real. Then when we surrender to the Holy Spirit He helps us build people up no matter what is going on in our lives and that is important as we grow.
Our growth shows that we live less for ourselves so we can help others see Christ without condemning them for who we are. Verse 3 says, “For even Christ didn’t live to please Himself. As Scripture say, ‘The insults of those who insult you, O God, have fallen on me.” Our patience, which comes from God, helps us see past ourselves and see others so we don’t create division but show love. Paul prays this prayer and we all should seek the same because this is what makes us complete followers as we live on earth waiting to be home with the Father. Romans chapter 15 verse 13 which says, “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
God has given us the Holy Spirit for our benefit and for our comfort to help us understand how to live like Christ. As we open our heart and seek we learn and grow then our walk becomes about the kingdom not just about us. I pray that we all trust and believe in all the benefits that the Holy Spirit offer and remember God has given us all the tools we need to be fully devoted to Jesus. Amen