A Daily Devotion for Friday, September 11
Romans 15:1-7
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.
These verses from Paul’s letter to the Romans instruct the spiritually “strong” to support and build up those whose faith is not yet as strong or mature. I don’t really consider myself in the “top tier” if there is such a thing. But I can certainly share my faith, and when and where I have known God to be absolutely present with me in extraordinary ways. For me, faith is so simple and yet so complicated at the same time. Even at the age of 67, I learn new things and make new connections, better understanding God’s active participation in my life. Maybe if I could share more of this with others, it might help them to be more patient with themselves.
Holy Lord, I know you have been with me always. Sometimes I lose sight of you, but this is my weakness. Help me to continue to put together the pieces. May I in some way support new believers, set a good example, and be fearless with my testimony and my lifestyle.
Becky, transforming
Friday, September 11th, 2026
Comforted By Strangers
)Focus) Students studying abroad
Today’s Reading. Romans 15: 1-7
Romans 15:7
Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
Paul isn’t just asking Christians to endure each other’s peculiarities , he tells us to “accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you.”
When we actively welcome and love others with the same grace Jesus showed us, it brings glory to God. We must remember the patience and forgiveness Jesus extended to us when we were imperfect. . It calls us to embrace people who are different—like a difficult coworker, a new church member, or a family member…
Romans 15:1-7
Given the Scripture passage today, I was surprised to see this morning’s Upper Room reflection centered around the terorist attacks on our country 25 years ago. I can see the application in, “Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up,” and “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had . . . Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” It if I am honest, I must admit to a lingering and persistent loathing for the radical Islamist worldview. Coexistence is out of the question for them. The fact tha…