October 4, 2024 - Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬-‭16

“Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” Ephesians 4:15-16 NLT

Lord, teach us how to value your truth in our lives. In order to value it we have to know it. Holy Spirit, give us a greater desire to dig into your Word. Open our eyes and give us your revelations and understanding. As we begin to understand your truth more and more, help us learn how to proclaim it to those around us in love. Jesus, teach us how to love and care for others the way you do. Teach us how to proclaim your truth as much through our loving actions as through our words. Holy Spirit, just like you helped Christ to see beyond the natural and love people with a supernatural love, you want to help us do the same. Open our eyes to see people with your eyes. Give us your compassion to love even when it seems impossible and definitely not deserved.

Lord, make us a church that truly reflects you to the world around us. Teach us how to see and love our brothers and sisters in you like you love them. If we can’t love them unconditionally, how can we expect to love the lost the way you love them? Show us how to value each other in the roles you have given and walk confidently in the role you have given us. Tear out any envy and jealousy in us. Teach us how to value each part of the body and walk together in unity. Grow us, your church, into a strong and healthy body that is glorifying you in all that we do. Transform us to look like you and let it start with each of us individually.

In Jesus name, amen.