Mark Tabata’s Weekday Devotionals:
Friday August 15 2025
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Romans 1:8-First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
I think churches today often get distracted from what is really important. But the Apostles focused on things that were needed. As an example, Paul was proud of the churches of the first century that focused on the things that were of primary concern. First and foremost amongst such priorities was the way that the churches were focused on preaching and teaching the the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Sometimes they did this even when they faced great opposition.
1 Thessalonians 1:6-8-And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, 7 so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. 8 For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything.
Paul was also proud when the churches were growing in their love for the Lord and for each other. This love was shown in how the Christians were willing to work together and sacrifice to help those in need.
2 Corinthians 9:2 (ERV)-2 I know that you want to help. I have been bragging about you to the people in Macedonia. I told them that you people in Achaia have been ready to give since last year. And your desire to give has made most of the people here ready to give also.
Paul also bragged on Christians when they helped in the preaching and teaching of the Gospel.
Philippians 4:15-16 (NLT)-As you know, you Philippians were the only ones who gave me financial help when I first brought you the Good News and then traveled on from Macedonia. No other church did this. 16 Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once.
In the last few weeks especially, we have seen a lot of hard times. My Dad has been very sick. We take comfort in knowing that he is ready to be with the Lord whenever God calls him Home. But another great comfort has come from the love poured out through our church families. What a blessing to know that your Christian brothers and sisters have your back no matter what comes your way! The calls, messages, emails, notes, cards, visits, food prepared and provided, are only a few examples of the love that has been poured out on is. I have been blessed through the years to have many outstanding church families, for which I give God thanks for all of them.
Lord, thank You for those who have stood by us in difficult times. We give You grateful praise for the church, and especially for our church families that have helped encourage us in so many ways. Please richly bless each of them. Amen.
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