We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death. (1 John
It's a
great comfort to find that love isn't regarded by the Apostle as though it were
merely an emotional or sentimental matter, for every reference points to
action! The love of God was manifested in the laying down of His life, and we
are to be willing to follow in His steps (1 John
Don't wait
to feel love, but begin at once to show it, because it is right, and your duty.
As you step out in simple faith and strive to show love, you will find that God
will supply the grace necessary to show that love. Love of such kind is self-giving
and it is the gift of the Spirit of God. This exotic bloom cannot flourish on
our wintry soil; the heart of man cannot furnish it. There may be a few wild
growths, but they are small in comparison to its beautiful flower and fruit.
Love is of God. It proceeds from His nature, and is shed abroad in our hearts
by the Holy Spirit which is given unto us. "The fruit of the Spirit is
love," and as we are united with Christ by faith, the love of God will be
shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, and we shall be able to love with
God's love.
We know
that we have been born from above as soon as we find ourselves willing to put
the interests of another before our own, not because we have a natural
affection or affinity for him or her, but because he or she and we belong to
God. If there is hatred or dislike in our hearts towards any, let's beware! We
must uproot it by quick and decisive action, or it will bring darkness into our
own lives (1 John 2:9-11).
PRAYER
Enable us,
Heavenly Father of patience, to bear one another's burdens, and to serve one
another in love. Teach and help us all to live in peace and to love in truth.
Subdue all bitter resentments in our minds, and let the law of kindness be on our
tongues. I pray these things in the name of Jesus, AMEN.
God's Daily Promise
Promise #281:
I have blessed you in Christ with one outpouring of grace after
another.
John 1:16 (WEB)
From his fullness we all received
grace upon grace.
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