Our Scripture reading today is Galatians 5:13-16.
Verse 15, "But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another."
The Apostle Paul gives a warning to the church in Galatia and it is a warning that we must heed today as well. The statement bite and devour carries with it the way an animal would attach and devour its prey. The word devour carries with it the idea of ruining something. The first thought that comes to mind is someone with a critical and harsh spirit. This type of behaviour was not to be found amongst those in the church who called themselves Christians.
The context of the passage reminds us that we are to be giving love to our neighbour. In fact, we are to love our neighbour as much as we love ourselves (verse 14). The love that the Holy Spirit provides us will prevent any church from being "consumed". Never forget, we have only one enemy and his goal is to devour. Don't be used of the devil to discourage a brother or sister in Christ!