FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 15:5: Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
Paul shared the two sources of spiritual power from which we must draw if we are to live to please others: the Word of God (Rom. 15:4) and prayer (Rom. 15:5–6). We must confess that we sometimes get impatient with younger Christians, just as parents become impatient with their children. But the Word of God can give us the “patience and encouragement” that we need. Paul closed this section praying for his readers, that they might experience from God that spiritual unity that He alone can give.
This suggests to us that the local church must major in the Word of God and prayer. The first real danger to the unity of the church came because the Apostles were too busy to minister God’s Word and pray (Acts 6:1–7). When they found others to share their burdens, they returned to their proper ministry, and the church experienced harmony and growth. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
What is one area of your Christian life that could use some more Godly patience?What initiative could you take today to demonstrate a greater “like-mindedness” towards another Christian, or your spouse, or your child, or your friend, or even your pastor?
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
The closer we get to Jesus, the more patient we get with one another.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
Lord, please renew my mind with Your love so I could be more like-minded towards others.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
