Growing In Christ
BRD REFLECTION 2026
1 Corinthians 16:10-24 and Psalm 27:7-14 (NIV)
(Loke Ai Mei from COSC)
READ:
1 Corinthians 16:10-24 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Paul concludes his first letter to the Corinthian church with heartfelt words of encouragement to a community he loves dearly. The apostle seeks to restore the believers to biblical values, reminding them to stay faithful to Jesus Christ by being alert, courageous and steadfast in the faith,doing everything in love.
Paul also gently exhorts the church to show grace, acceptance, and hospitality toward those who labour among them. He highlights faithful servants such as Timothy, Apollos, Stephanas, Aquila, and Priscilla. Timothy, though young and still growing in experience, is a trusted co-labourer of Paul. Paul urges the church to show kindnessand respect to Timothy, nurturing him to gain confidence in ministry.
The letter concludes with Paul’s admonition for the Corinthian believers to lay aside distractions and divisions that hinder their love for the Lord Jesus Christ and for one another.
APPLY:
We need one another. The ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ can only be lived out when God’s people work in unity. Imagine all that can be accomplished for Christ if we put aside our differences, personal preferences and serve together.
When I intentionally walk alongside a Timothy or a Stephanas, I partner with the Lord in discipling His servants. It is a joy to see a young believer growing up in Christ and serving the community. I am thankful when there is an opportunity to support someone to grow in Christ. As we show love, grace, and mutual respect to God’s workers or fellow labourers in the Lord, we refresh one another’s spirit.
At times, I find it difficult to do everything in love (v.14). It is a struggle, and I have disappointed God and disobeyed the Holy Spirit’s promptings to choose love rather than frustration or impatience. To dwell on whatever is true, right, pure, lovely, and admirable (Philippians 4:8) is possible only through the enabling of the Holy Spirit.
DO:
As we celebrate Lunar New Year, it is an opportunity for me to refresh the spirit of people I meet with a sincere word of praise, an act of kindness and to be positive in all situations.
PRAY:
Dear heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me to remain steadfast in my faith, courageous in the face of challenges, and devoted to You. Teach me to do everything in love, reflecting the heart of Christ.
Lord, help me to show grace, respect, and hospitality to all, especially Your servants whom I serve with. I offer my life anew in 2026. Mould me into a disciple that reflects Your truth and Your love. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
