Love 2!

Love 2!

Above all things have intense and unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins [forgives and disregards the offenses of others]. 1 Peter 4:8 AMPC

Peter speaks of the end; when everything that we know now will cease to exist. Peter calls to our attention the need to pay close attention to the things God considers very important. The central theme is a life that is dead to sin, and sensitive to the Spirit so it can pray in line with God's will. All of these things are important, but love is the central factor; the cord that binds them all together; the chord that makes them all complete; giving sweet melody and impacting lives.

This love is for one another, everyone; not just people who are lovable, or who deserve love or who are able to reciprocate the love you show. What is love if it is only for those who are able to return the favour? I recall Jesus' sermon on the mount where he very clearly stated that if we only love those who love us in return, then we are no different from the Pharisees and hypocrites. If God were to deal with me the way I deal with other people around me, would I be alive today? That's food for thought for you and I. 

Oh, offences will surely come; all of human relationships are complex and quite  unpredictable. People will step on my toes but what I do and how I react will reveal my heart's control centre; the One who is in charge of your thoughts and actions. I can deceive others with words; my actions are the loudest testimony of who I submit to. I also ask God to forgive me my own sins. Imagine if God were to hold my sins against me. If I want to enjoy all of God's mercy and grace, I must align myself with Him. I must obey Him in all things, not only when it is convenient. His time of favour is here.