DAILY DEVOTION, May 6, 2022

But if you bite and devour one another, take heed that you are not consumed by one another (Galatians 5:15).

Paul gives us some sobering, practical wisdom. First, we have come to faith in Jesus and received God’s forgiving love. We have received the gift of eternal life. Next, Paul talks about personal relationships in the church. We are not to bite and devour one another! What does he mean? He means we are not too major in attacking and criticizing fellow believers. Apparently, some in Galatia were engaging in such destructive behavior. There was gossip, criticism, personal attacks, rejection of others, and arguments — which led to a very bad result. Others were “consumed” by such behavior. J. B. Phillips paraphrased this verse: “
“But if freedom means merely that you are free to attack and tear each other to pieces, be careful that it doesn’t mean that between you, you destroy your fellowship altogether!”

I have seen it happen—people driven out of the church because of biting criticism. But, on the positive side, we are to love, forgive, encourage and build up one another. We have a reputation for being a loving church. So let’s keep it that way.

Father, I thank you for my church family. I thank you that I am met with love and forgiveness when I say or do the wrong thing. Help me to encourage others, not devour them! In Jesus’ name, Amen.