LOVE ONE ANOTHER. 1st Peter 4:8
Before all other considerations in life, the need for an intense, fervent love for other Christians comes first. Whatever time and talents we invest in the benefit of God's people will make a lasting difference. Our possessions, status, and fame do not count in the kingdom of God. An open home and an open heart toward strangers as well as those we know are of great value. That is when they are opened without grumbling, complaining, or fussing about inconvenience and expense.
The first personal grace needed for effective Christian living is the control of our thoughts, as taught in verse 7. In light of Christ’s coming, love for one another is an essential grace that covers the failures we think we see in others. Love protects the reputation of our fellow-believers rather than publicizing their faults. “Fervent love” is not casual but means loving others to our full capacity.
Our love does not atone for another person’s sins, but it covers them from public view and promotes forgiveness. It does not stir up sins, as can easily happen when we listen to negative gossip or pass it on to others. There is nothing good that comes from openly discussing a person’s sins. Love is mutual; love for others produces their love for us. It affects both parties because it receives and gives freely without expecting any compensation.
Love seeks the best possible interpretation in every situation, even though we cannot condone or approve of sin in any way. When sin occurs, love does not spread that knowledge any farther than is needed to bring about repentance, cleansing, and restoration of the one who sins. Love overlooks irritation, personality quirks, and even minor offenses, and seeks the best for the one who may offend us.
This strenuous kind of love that we are enjoined to maintain is not blind or ignorant, but has in view the idea of forgiveness, correction, renewed fellowship, maintaining a believer’s testimony, and, if possible, recovery. When we love and forgive others, they will love and forgive us when we fail and fall. We can display God’s glory by blessing others with fervent love.
How do I know who the children of God are? Look for fervent love in the family. How can I tell those who love God’s Word? Look for fervent love for the Bible. How can I know those who have concern for souls? Look for fervent love of the Gospel. How can I know those who are people of faith? Look for fervent love doing the impossible. How can I know those who have love for His name? Look for fervent love for His honor. How can I know those who are not ashamed of Christ? Look for the fervent love of their heavenly Father.
How can I know those who give themselves to prayer? Look for fervent love for the Master. How can I know those who share heavy burdens? Look for fervent love for their neighbor. How can I know whom to trust? Look for fervent love for me. How can I know those who give their very best? Look for fervent love for all they see. How can I know those who love the Lord’s return? Look for fervent love as each day begins. How can I know those who won’t turn from righteousness? Look for fervent love for Him.