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August 24 Daily Devotional

The Specifics of Being Like-minded

Peter G. Feenstra

Fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Philippians 2:2

Bible Reading

Romans 12:1–5

Devotional

Would you consider yourself to be opinionated, or do you make an effort to think the same way as others? Do you consider it a strength or weakness to be like-minded? To be of the same mind is a major concern for Paul in this letter. He exhorts the Philippians, and us, to think the same way. What he promotes, however, is not some dull uniformity of thought. He is not suggesting that everyone have exactly the same opinion on every issue. Such a command would be ludicrous. In chapter 3 Paul points out that it is beneficial to have diversity within the church. You cannot say there is unity when everyone in the church agrees with your opinion. Such a demand would by its very nature contribute to dissension. Rather, the apostle is asking for an attitude adjustment, for a disposition and conviction which manifests that we all are striving for the same thing. We have a common concern, namely, to live as brothers and sisters in the Lord. We have one goal: to glorify Christ and live by His holy Word.

Unity in faith is not only broken when false doctrine is tolerated or when the lifestyle of some in the congregation is worldly. It is hindered when members have a wrong and sinful attitude toward each other, when we demand that everyone sees everything our way. In Romans 8:4–6 Paul indicates that being like-minded means thinking in harmony with the Holy Spirit, setting our minds and hearts on things that are spiritual. We rise above the realm of our own thinking, ideas and sinful desires. Usually when conflict develops, at least one person is not thinking in a spiritual and godly manner.

Those who are like-minded think soberly. Romans 12:3, β€œFor I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God dealt to each one a measure of faith.” We get into trouble when we do not think with sober judgment, when we are protecting our own turf and have our own priorities and personal ambitions.

Being like-minded we have the mind of Christ. We want what Christ wants. The Word of God rules our lives. It dominates us and becomes the controlling force in our life.

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