Cut Off
CUT OFF
Read 1 Corinthians 12:20-27.
“I just think it’s silly. I don’t want to go!”
As Tammy slammed down the phone, her mother asked, “Where don’t you want to go?”
“Oh, some kids in my Sunday school class are going to take cookies to the retirement home. I wanted to take them to the day care center—but we have to do what Becky wants.”
“Didn’t your class just have a party?” Mom wanted to know.
Tammy responded, “I didn’t go. They play stupid games! Becky’s always got to be the leader, and Regina thinks she’s so cool.”
Mom watched as Tammy went out to get the newspaper. When Tammy came inside, she pointed to an article and picture in the paper. “Listen! ‘Local Boy’s Hand Restored.’ That’s Eddie!” she said excitedly.
Together they read about the accident in which the young boy’s hand had been severed from his arm. The doctors were able to sew his hand back on, and there was a good chance he’d be able to use it again.
After a restless evening, Tammy went to bed. Later Mom stopped at the door of her room. “What’s the matter, honey?” she asked gently.
“I’m so lonely,” Tammy sobbed. “Why can’t I get along with my friends?”
Mom said, “You’ve cut yourself off from them, Tammy. If they don’t do things your way, you refuse to have anything to do with them. Without Christian friends, you’re like a hand that’s no longer connected to the body.”
“I guess I have cut myself off from the group,” Tammy said slowly. Then she brightened. “But now I know what’s wrong, and I know what to do about it. Good night, Mom. And thanks.”
HOW ABOUT YOU?
If things don’t go your way, do you refuse to cooperate? Are your actions cutting you off from your friends? Christian friends are important, so ask God to forgive your selfishness. Be willing to sometimes do things someone else’s way.
TO MEMORIZE:
Yes, the body has many different parts, not just one part.
1 Corinthians 12:14
WE NEED ONE ANOTHER.
From the book
