The Body

1 Cor. 12:18

But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose.

The body of Christ is similar to the actual, physical body. As the physical body has many members so the spiritual body does. Even though there are many members, each member is indispensable. So we ask how did I get to be a foot when someone else got to be the mouth? How was this choice made? God arranged the members as He chose. We had nothing to do with it. Our natural gifting or talents had nothing to do with it. Yet, no part of the body is less important. In fact, the weaker parts of the body are indispensable. But where is the honor if you are the little toe?

God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. What a beautiful plan! Only God could design it. The overwhelming thought--no division in the body. The feeling of unity is so strong that, as we care for one another, if one rejoices, we all rejoice. If one suffers, we all suffer. Sympathy and support flow naturally from us to others. Paul said in Phil. 2, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Believers need to be eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 1 Pet. 3:8 says, Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. This was God's design for the body of believers. How far have we erred from this? Are our thoughts more for self than others? Are we so busy taking care of ourselves that we don't even see the needs of others?

Father,

Open my eyes to see the needs of those around me. Prompt me when I forget to look. Thank You, Lord, for making me part of Your wonderful body.

In Jesus name,

Amen