OUR DAILY BREAD 7TH NOVEMBER 2024 DEVOTIONAL, THURSDAY ODB MESSAGE
Our Daily Bread 7th November 2024 Devotional TOPIC: Other People’s Business
Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 40-42; Hebrews 4
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Key VerseI plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. – Philippians 4:2
Today’s Scripture
Philippians 4:1-9
Today’s ODB Insight
Whether to get involved in other people’s business is a tricky issue. Paul pleaded with “Euodia and . . . Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord,” and he asked his “true companion” to help them (Philippians 4:2-3). In 1 Thessalonians 5, the apostle gives some practical instructions on this topic, which include these important words: “Live in peace with each other. . . . Warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone” (vv. 13-14).
The desire to live in peace with others doesn’t necessarily exclude getting involved in their lives. Paul’s verbs are strong—warn, encourage, help, be patient. They imply that we sometimes need to remind others of the truths of the Bible. Implementing this good counsel calls for great wisdom, discernment, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
OUR DAILY BREAD 7TH NOVEMBER 2024 – THURSDAY ODB DEVOTIONAL MESSAGE
Four of our grandkids were playing with a miniature train set, and the younger two were arguing over an engine. When our eight-year-old grandson began to intervene, his six-year-old sister stated, “Don’t worry about their business.” Wise words for us all—usually. But when the argument turned to tears, Grandma stepped in, separated, and comforted the squabbling children.
It’s good to stay out of others’ business when doing so could make matters worse. But sometimes we need to prayerfully get involved. In his letter to the Philippians, the apostle Paul provides an example of when to do so. Here he urges two women, Euodia and Syntyche, “to be of the same mind in the Lord” (4:2). Apparently, their disagreement had become so intense that the apostle felt compelled to intervene (v. 3), even though he was imprisoned (1:7).
Paul knew the women’s argument was causing disunity and taking focus away from the gospel. So, he gently spoke the truth while reminding them that their names were written “in the book of life” (4:3). Paul wanted these women and everyone in the church to live as God’s people in thought and actions (vv. 4-9).
When you’re unsure if you should get involved, pray, trusting that “the God of peace will be with you” (v. 9; see v. 7).
REFLECT: When have you recently stepped into an argument or disagreement, and what was the result? How does seeking God’s leading affect how you handle conflict?
PRAY: Dear God, please give me the wisdom to know when to get involved and provide me with the words to say to bring healing and unity.
Our Daily Bread Ministries (ODB) is a Christian organization founded by Dr. Martin De Haan in 1938. It is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with over 600 employees. It produces several devotional publications, including Our Daily Bread. our daily bread devotional for today audio our daily bread booklet
