Devotional Guide, Today’s Reading – Tuesday, July 5, 2022

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Theme: BUILDING NEW JERUSALEM

Text:  “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.  Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces.” – Psalm 122:6,7

Comment: Peace is a necessary condition for the optimal growth and development of New Jerusalem. That is why the Sweet Psalmist of Israel, David, enjoins us who have been called to the way of truth and life to “seek peace, and pursue it”.  (Psalm 34:14) Apostle Paul further harps on the necessity of peace. “Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another”. (Romans 14:19.) It is important to draw our attention to one of the major obstacles to peace in the Church – which is DIVISION.  Apostle Paul addressed the early church in Rome and Corinth on this cankerworm. “Now I beseech you, brethren mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them”.  (Romans 16:17) In 1 Corinthians 12:25,26, Apostle Paul exhorts us that division should not be found in the body of Christ. Rather the members should have the same care one for another, such that when one member suffers, all the members suffer. Likewise if one member is honoured all the members rejoice with him. (1 Corinthians 12:25,26) Peace

 

The Sweet Psalmist of Israel in his characteristic poetic language gives us a glimpse of what New Jerusalem will be when fully established, “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Psalm 85:10.  This is the spiritual environment that we should strive to achieve for the optimal growth and development of New Jerusalem.