Eph 4.16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Getting in shape and exercise is a craze that has swept the nation. You can pass by fitness centers at almost any time day or night, and you will see cars in the parking lot of avid exercise enthusiasts. What is good for the physical body, is good for the body of Christ. We see in our text this morning that every part of the body of Christ receives from Jesus the particular gifting for the purpose of building one another up.
In the physical realm, I can only exercise for myself. But in the spiritual realm, we not only exercise ourselves unto godliness for our own growth in The Lord. We also use our God given gift for the purpose of edifying one another. Christ has designed His body to function as a whole. We are not called to be individualists or hermits. Like our physical bodies, the body of Christ is composed of many members. Every part is necessary. Precious reader, do not think that your prayers and God given abilities are of no value to the rest of the body, because it is. Note again the words, joined together, every joint and every part are fitly framed together by Jesus Christ. Why? in order that we might increase (grow) as we seek to edify one another, motivated by a love for Jesus.
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, we need to erase this rugged individualism that only lives for “número uno”. We need to break out of our personal comfort zones and get into the flow of working together for the good of one another and the glory of God. When you purpose to bless others and see them grow in Christ, you grow as well. Selah
