Where does love fit within the wide range of God-chosen and God-given gifts? Paul's answer was "Everywhere". It is the key to harmony in the church and to acceptance by your neighbours. But it must be genuine and sincere, not selectively loving some while ignoring others. As someone has said, "Love is the freedom to serve others with no interest in personal gain." Only the Holy Spirit can produce love like that. Paul also gave a helpful list of instructions for us as Christians. Possibly verses 9-13 could refer to our relationships within the church while verses 14-21 could cover our contacts with the outside world. Paul covered in the first section - love for our fellow church members, respect for each other, be joyful, be patient, and be faithful in prayer. That is quite a checklist. In dealing with the world, love again is the basis for our actions and attitudes. Look at all the ways people can act toward us and look at how Paul said we should respond. They can persecute us or abuse us. What can we do? Often it's best to leave the circumstances in God's hands and let Him deal with the situation. That is not easy but it is the safest. Try it today. Notice the words of verse18 "If it is possible…" Isn't it good that phrase is included here? And did you notice the second phrase – "as far as it depends on you". Sometimes no matter how hard we try or how gracious we may try to be, there are people with whom we don't seem to be able to get along. What can we do? Pray for them and leave them with the Lord. Again that is the safest way. |
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