1 Peter 4:8-11
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:8-11 (NIV)
"Above all, love each other deeply," it seems so simple. How much more clear to understand could it be? It should be easy to follow that directive, right? Well, right up until someone cuts you off in traffic......Grrrr. Well, right up until some kid says something mean and hurtful to your grandchild.....Grrrr. Well, right up until you hear a relative gossiping about another member of the family.....Grrrrr. So many challenges even for the easiest of directives! When these things and so many more happen, the easy thing seems to be to lash out, back at the person or people who have wronged you or someone else. How difficult is it to even just think to yourself, now, God loves that person, too; perhaps there's something going on in their lives that is troublesome, I should pray for them. Community is all about everyone, not just the ones who are easy to love, serve, care for.
The real beauty in this passage is that we do not need to accomplish these lofty goals on our own. God's power is with us all the time, everywhere, with everyone we come in contact with. We can lean on the strength He gives us and get closer every day to loving each other deeply. Speaking, serving, loving may not be possible for us alone in every situation; however, it is not just us, ever, it is God working through us, and we are carrying out His wishes to give praise and honor to Him!
Questions for Reflection:
- What is one small thing I can do today to use the gifts I have received from God to serve someone else?
- When I find it difficult to love someone deeply, can I realize that it is not me, but God working through me to provide for others what they need most at this particular moment?
Prayer:
Father, thank you for the gifts you give me. Help me to use my gifts joyfully, without grumbling, to help and serve and love others every day. To You be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen
Login To Leave Comment