Grace World Outreach Church
Day 22
We Are Better Together
By: Debbie Milton
“Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.”
(1 Corinthians 12:27, ESV)
Being a “member” of something is a familiar concept in our culture. We can be members of a gym, a political party, a school club, a sports team, or a church. Membership often gives us belonging, access, and shared identity with a group.
I have been part of a church family since the day I was born. I grew up in a small community where church was not just something we attended; it was who we were. Our church was the center of our social world. We worshiped together, ate together, celebrated together, and even went to school together. Before I ever truly understood who Jesus was, I first experienced belonging, love, and acceptance in His house.
That rhythm continued as I married and raised our two daughters. Church was our home, our support system, our extended family. But as I encountered Jesus personally and began to immerse myself in His Word, something shifted. I realized that church is not simply a place to attend or a group to belong to; it is a living body, and each of us is called and equipped to play a vital part.
Paul paints this picture beautifully in 1 Corinthians 12. Christ is the Head, and we are His body. Every believer is uniquely designed and intentionally placed, gifted with abilities, passions, and spiritual gifts meant to build up the church and extend His Kingdom. We are not spectators, consumers, or passive members; we are active participants, chosen instruments, and living expressions of Jesus on the earth.
Just as a physical body cannot function if one part refuses to operate, the church cannot fulfill its mission if we withhold our gifts or neglect our place. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you” (1 Corinthians 12:21). Every gift matters. Every person matters. Your presence matters. Your calling matters.
As we fast and pray, God renews not only our hearts, minds, and spirits, but the body as a whole. He strengthens unity. He awakens gifts. He breathes fresh life into His people so that together we reflect His glory and accomplish His mission.
Reflection:
- How has God uniquely gifted you to serve the body of Christ?
- Are there gifts or passions in you that have been dormant or underused?
- This week, take one intentional step to serve or strengthen the body of Christ. When every part functions, the whole body flourishes. Let me encourage you to:
- Pray for someone in our church.
- Join a ministry team or serve where there is need.
- Ask God to reveal where He has positioned you to make a difference.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for calling me into the body of Christ and for the gifts You have placed within me. Renew Your church and strengthen our unity. Teach us to honor, support, and value one another as Your specially chosen people. Empower us to serve with joy, humility, and boldness. Stir every gift and awaken each member to greater purpose. May we operate in harmony under Christ our Head, fulfilling Your mission on the earth. In Jesus’ name, amen.