Today's Verse: 1 Corinthians 1:4-5

The apostle Paul was amazing. He writes to one of the most problematic churches in the New Testament, yet he finds genuine reasons to affirm them for what is good among them. First, he is thankful for them because Jesus died to give them grace, which they received. When God extends his grace to others, how can we not do the same? Second, he recognizes that the areas of their abuse - their misuse of spiritual gifts - are also reasons to give thanks. They may have distorted these gifts, but when they rein them in to honor God and build each other up, these gifts can bless their church family in many ways. Even though Paul has tough words to follow, his example reminds us that a group of children of God is made up of people to be cherished, even if they act childishly and have problems. Let's take notice of what Paul did and seek to value people who have received God's grace and are gifted, even if they abuse some of the privileges of grace.