Because of Jesus I Am...Pavyzdys

Being Like-Minded In Christ

Verse - “If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.” Philippians 2:1-2

Think - Travel back in time for a moment to February 2018. It’s Super Bowl time, and the Eagles are playing the Patriots. You were likely caught up in a new-found depth of love for the Eagles, cheering frantically alongside family and friends and then full of elation when the epic “Philly Special” play resulted in a crucial touchdown. Fans near and far were experiencing a collective moment of like-mindedness, a sense of loyalty and shared joy, all centered on their love for the Eagles. That is just one small example of a like-minded moment many of us can relate to.

The sense of identity that comes with sharing a mindset is powerful and unifying. What comes to your mind when you consider how you prioritize being like-minded with others? Do you value being a team or fan base member? Your political affiliation? Your church membership? Your role at work? Consider this honestly because chances are it shapes your identity in significant ways.

Apply - Consider verse one in the form of questions. How do you find encouragement from being united with Christ? Are you comforted by His love? Take a moment to read through the whole verse and answer them for yourself. I hope you are reminded of the sense of identity and purpose that God brings to our lives as believers and the absolute gift that salvation is. When the core of our shared mindset is Jesus, we are drawn together and can more fully live as the body of Christ. As followers of Jesus, nothing should bring us together more than our love of Him and the desire to be like Him.

Pray - Jesus, thank you for all the ways you bring purpose and meaning into our lives. Help us to keep our eyes on you, and in doing so, remain like-minded with our fellow believers. May our love for you, God, be the most important part of our life and identity. Amen.

Bio line - Kelly Metzler attends Hershey Mennonite Church in Kinzers, PA, and serves on the board for The Factory Ministries. She is married to Karl, and they have the joy of parenting Will and Laurel.