Scripture:
1 Thessalonians 4:9 -10 – Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another, for that indeed is what you are doing to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers to do this more and more
Observation:
Paul is encouraging the Thessalonian believers to be more like Christ on a consistent basis. Through Jesus, we have been taught by God to love as he does. The same power of the Spirit which gives us faith allows us to live for Him. This all flows from and only from the grace of God and creates a desire to honor Him and share His love.
Application:
We have bestowed on us the greatest example of Love the world has ever seen in the sacrifice of Jesus so we can have a relationship with the Father. We know form Jesus example and his words to love God and love our neighbors. This is not theoretical but an actionable call to love others unconditionally and sacrificially. I can’t be a follower of Christ and claim to love God but hate my brother or my neighbor. We are supposed to be known as believers by our love giving the glory to God. As I follow Christ, the Spirit will lead me to live more like Him to receive His love and share the love.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your love and grace and modeling for us the way to love you and others. Let your Spirit guide me to love everyone more like you on a consistent basis.