It Begins With Love!
Why do we tear one another down with our words? Could it be rebellion, jealously, envy, etc. that causes us to belittle others?
As Christians, shouldn’t we follow God’s heart to love instead of wasting time criticizing others?
“This is the message you have heard from the beginning: We should love one another.” (1 John 3:11)
I believe loving others is our biggest challenge as Christians. It seems easy to get along with and love our “bff’s or buds,” but it becomes difficult to love those that intentionally aggravate and gossip about us, or show jealous behavior, and etc. Our Heavenly Father instructs us in His Word to love one another (no restrictions or boundaries). Jesus loved everyone! Yes, He even loved the Pharisees. We are called to love others no matter the circumstance or what church membership!
Why would someone want to attend our church if all they heard was our criticisms of other churches?
When we begin to walk in true love for one another, small, petty issues diminish in our hearts and we have a much better tolerance and understanding for those whose personalities and actions can grate our nerves. When we choose to walk in God’s love, we become more patient and kind toward those around us. Love (God) calms us and helps us see the true heart of others.
“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God…..” (1 John 4:7)
The great commandment that Jesus shared was, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart” and to “Love your neighbor as much as you love yourself.” (Matthew 22: 36-40)
God is love and when we love someone, we are giving them God. Bottom line: Loving others is the best evangelistic tool we can use to win the lost, a sincere love for one another. But before we can win the lost to Jesus, we must begin by loving other Christians around us. My heart breaks when I hear about church quarrels and fights. Isn’t this the result of demanding that others do things “our” way?
Christian friends, it’s time to walk the walk as followers of Christ, choosing to love others, whether they’re family members, other churches, co-workers, or even those at Wal-Mart. It’s time we step back and take a long look in the mirror. As we pray, let’s confess self-pride as sin (thinking we are better than others) and begin to love and appreciate others. This could begin with encouraging words or doing favors to help someone or forgiving others. When we cease thinking “Me, me , me…” and begin focusing on Jesus and His life of service and love, we’ll see our attitude change and a true love for others will develop in our heart.
Remember love is God, God is love. Today, let’s give this gift to those we come in contact with.
It all begins with love (God).
