YOUR PATTERN SINS (8)                                   Romans 12:9-21

Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;  (v10)

Enthusiasts: Enthusiasts are the life and soul of the party. They’re apt to have gift for story telling – and they like to talk about themselves. If you try to talk to them about their problems, they may listen to you at first, but they are like Teflon-it doesn’t seem to stick. Author John Ortherg tells of being in a restaurant with a friend and every time they ordered something their server said “Superb” or “Excellent choice” or “Brilliant.” When Ortherg asked her, “Do you ever say, “That was rally stupid,” or “That’s going to taste terrible?” she replied “No, in the Kitchen we actually have a list of affirmations, and every time somebody orders something we have to give them one of those affirmations,” Well, enthusiasts don’t need a list of affirmations, because they are always saying things like “awesome,” “wow,” “fabulous” or “great.” Sometimes, they can go for years without seeing the pain and darkness in other people, or even in themselves. They’re also tempted to make life revolve around their pursuit of positive feelings – the desire for gratification – and they can be miserable when they’re not getting enough attention. So, what’s the answer? (1)  Address your need to be the center of attention. “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honour one another above yourselves” (2) Address your reluctance to deal with pain or unpleasant situations. It is a trait that can lead to isolation and addiction. “Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” (Ephesians 6:10 NIV)

PRAYER LINE: Help us, heavenly Father; to see the many ways You love and encourage us; then help us to love and encourage those around us so that they can see You in us.

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The nail – pierced hands of Jesus reveal the love – filled hearts of Jesus.