P27 is now "Faith Journey"

Romans 12:9-31

The Story: In Romans 12:1, Paul gives us a powerful life principle.  In all of life we are to be worshiping God as living sacrifices for the purposes of God.  Now in Romans 12:9-31 we read what this looks like in our daily life.  Here's the list of 14 principles:

1. Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them.
2. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.
3. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.
4. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.
5. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
6. When God's people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
7. Bless those who persecute you. Don't curse them; pray that God will bless them.
8. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.
9. Live in harmony with each other. Don't be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people.
10. Don't think you know it all!
11. Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable.
12. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.
13. Never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God.
14. Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good. (verses taken from the NETBible version)

The Key Truth: All of Romans 12 speaks of the surrendered life, before God and others.  The person that thinks highly of himself cannot live the surrendered life.  In fact, he will have a challenge with all fourteen principles.

The Application: We need to be making a life-changing decision in that our life is not ours.  As believers our lives belong to God.  That includes all of us, our careers, things, and ambitions.  Start by looking at the list and choosing one or two where you need to experience growth.  Ask God to help you today and then be determined to make it real in your life.