Journey In His Presence - Unity - Part 3
Writer Author Yvonne Mullen
Christian Column
:
Devotionals
- Fiction No
UNITY in the body of Christ,
an unattainable goal or a reality for a Christ focused church?
Love, one of the components in learning to how to walk in unity, is one of the most powerful tools Christians have. Our Lord, Jesus Christ had so much love for humanity, that He died for us. Love is a manifestation of our growth in the Lord. The more we love like Jesus did the more we grow in our relationship with Him.
John 13:34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another."
This servantlike, selfless love that we show our fellowman is one that witnesses to the world that we are true disciples of Jesus Christ. This Scripture also opens the door to the definition of restoration, both individual and corporate. This new commandment Jesus gave His disciples should have come as no surprise to them for the Old Testament spoke of it as well:
Leviticus 19:18 "You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord."
This is one Scripture that I try my hardest to follow with all my heart. For by following this commandment we fulfill all of the commandments. That is why Jesus handed down this commandment. Not to spring anything new to the people, but to reinforce what was spoken through the prophets years ago.
In Ephesians 5:2, we are taught to model our lives after Jesus, imitating Him rather than others. He is the perfect example of the love God requires.
Ephesians 5:2 "And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma."
Throughout Scripture, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, love is the key to unlocking the doors of the hardened hearts of people. As God's people, we have the capacity to love as He did and does. His love is an enduring love- a love that will never end. This for us is a call to obedience.
1 Peter 1:22 "Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart."
Let your love for your fellowman be sincere, without putting on an act. Let your heart be pure and free from hypocrisy. Be obedient to God's Word.
Basically, we are called to love without partiality or thinking about "What's in it for me?" Let us examine our hearts and purify them before the Lord. Allow Him to burn away all that is not of Him.
James 2:8 "If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, 'You shall love you neighbor as yourself,' you do well;"
That Scripture pretty well sums it up. While enjoying our relationship with a loving God we in turn should share that love with all we come in contact with.
My prayer for today is, "Lord God thank you so much for loving us unconditionally. Show us through the power of Your Holy Spirit how to share that love with others, in sincerity without partiality. You are a loving God. Help us to grow in that love so that we can grow in our relationship with You. To You be all the glory and honor. Amen."
In His Unending Love
Your Sister In Christ,
Yvonne
Email Yvonne
Editor's Comment:
About the Writer Author
State:
Kentucky
Country:
United States
Email:
Website:
Profile:
Click here!
|
|
Most Recent From This Writer
Inspired Still - Designs by LaVellaK
Design Challenged? No worries! Among many design services I offer, I'll gladly design hats, t-shirts and more for you or your organized Special Event. Email me at justask@worthfinding.com for details!
Photgraphy & Design by LaVella Kraft
|
Select Article or Story
|