“The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” But quite the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are [absolutely] necessary; and as for those parts of the body which we consider less honorable, these we treat with greater honor; and our less presentable parts are treated with greater modesty, while our more presentable parts do not require it. But God has combined the [whole] body, giving greater honor to that part which lacks it, so that there would be no division or discord in the body [that is, lack of adaptation of the parts to each other], but that the parts may have the same concern for one another. And if one member suffers, all the parts share the suffering; if one member is honored, all rejoice with it. Now you [collectively] are Christ’s body, and individually [you are] members of it [each with his own special purpose and function].” (1 Corinthians 12:21-27 AMP)
REFLECTION
I am currently going through a trying transition, doing what I believe the Lord is leading me to do. This includes cutting out things like added sugar from my diet and incorporating more physical exercise, as added sugar and lack of exercise has clearly been negatively affecting my general health (which impacts every other area of my life). So, instead of enjoying “pleasure foods” while watching a Christian video on YouTube, I’m working out and giving my body better fuel to live well (ie: highly nutritious real food that my taste buds are not yet accustomed to) and I’m spending more time feeding on God’s Word, trusting the Holy Spirit to elevate my senses, sensibility and sensitivity, in His higher way and perfect timing. I recently started related disciplines, in faith, and so far it’s been tough, as my body withdraws from sugary treats and familiar comfort zones. But God’s grace is indeed sufficient and accountability is helping me stay honest and connected to the body of Christ through the gritty process. I used to be fiercely independent and so full of pride, not wanting others to know about my private struggles. And while it’s wise to prayerfully discern what to share and with whom, the truth is that none of us is perfect this side of Heaven, and God’s Word makes it clear that we need to support each other as we go through the ongoing process of sanctification and transformation. The way to Heaven is not a solo trip. So let’s stay close to our loving Lord and do what we believe He is leading us to do, and embrace accountability as we ascend, in faith, hope and His unfailing love.
PRAYER POEM
Loving Lord, keep me connected to You and Yours, as we ascend and more deeply comprehend the width, length, height and depth of Your redeeming love, step by step, breath by breath, until we enter the pearly gates above.
