From the Kitchen of Mr. James

About the Book

Why Me? Why this? Why now? Why me? All of us have asked these questions at times. And they seem to come most readily when something goes wrong in our lives. When we lose a job, break off a relationship, or hear bad news from the doctor; it’s only natural to wonder if life has any rhyme or reason. Fortunately, Paul has a response to our why. He says that “in all things” God works for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28). Paul doesn’t say “in all things.” That means God will use difficulties in your life to accomplish something good. Can you see what the end result is? Perhaps not right away, but you might be able to at a late date. So what do you do in the meantime? Trust that because you know God, he will fit every piece of your life’s puzzle together to form a beautiful picture. Memorize Romans 8:28 if you haven’t done so before. Then take time to carefully read this entire chapter. To me, it’s one of the most comforting passages in the Bible. One of the great gifts God gives believers is a loving family—God’s family, the church. Yet like any family, we as church members sometimes need to be reminded how to properly treat each other. With that in mind, Paul gives special instruction on how believers are treated, in particular younger or older members. His exhortation is that we treat all members with courtesy, respect, gentleness, and absolute purity as we spur them on to full participation in church life. Consider Paul’s words and evaluate how you regard all the members. Determine to express to them the same kindness you would want others to show your own mother, father, brother, or sister.

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