Love Never Fails (Day Twenty-Three)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

During our look at 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a, we have learned what love is…what love isn’t… and what love does.  These all require the highest of standards.  Something we are not capable of in our own power.

Only by the grace of God. 

This unfailing love can only happen by allowing the Holy Spirit to do His work within our hearts… by totally surrendering to Him.  Spurgeon puts it this way, “Love never fails to bloom where faith has taken root.”    

The Greek word for “fail” in this portion of Scripture is piptei which means to fall or collapse.  No matter what severe pressure this love is placed under, it doesn’t fold. 

This reminds me of a couple’s wedding vows.  While standing before God they vow “to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do them part.”

I witnessed an elderly man some years ago who retained Hospice home care for his dying wife.  Although she was in an altered state physically, the husband continued to care for and love on her like he had for the past fifty plus years.  Now there’s an example of love that never fails. 

No matter what circumstances may come our way, love never fails.

This LOVE always overcomes and wins in the end. 

Forever His,

Anita

Love Endures All Things (Day Twenty-Two)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

This military term, “endures” assures that a soldier will hold his stance at any cost…even unto death.  With our war still going on in the Middle East, we hear many stories about these brave service men who have given their lives by enduring or fighting to the very end.  These heroes, after seeing one of their comrades falling close by, remain steadfast and stand their ground.  Never do they give up.

Even to the point of death.   

This love perseveres in intolerable situations.  This love looks beyond to the hope of what lies in the future. 

Isn’t that what Christ did for us on the cross? 

When you find yourself being mistreated, unappreciated, unacknowledged, and even insulted, call upon the love of God that remains unwavering.  Finish the battle, mighty Christian, with perseverance!

I have witnessed bloodshed on the battlefield myself. No, not the physical battlefield, but the spiritual battlefield.  Need I remind you that the enemy wages war against us?  (Ephesians 6:12) The wounded have hurt when their husbands have been thoughtless or when another believer has injured their friendship.  Many wear a countenance of pain because of the insults or untruths barbed their way. 

As a soldier of Christ, I too, wear many battle scars.  I have suffered false accusations, misguided innuendos, gossip, and mistreatment from others.  Although I can attest to the attacks as painful, I endured.  Remember what Paul exhorted in 1 Peter 4:8, “And above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins.’”  Fervent love.  Don’t let it grow cold.      

We need to forever remain strong, even though things get rough and we become worn down.  How can we do this?  This LOVE is only available through God.  It takes the focus off of self and places it onto Jesus.  We must let this love be transformed into actions that demonstrate as much.  1 John 3:18 (NKJV)“My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.”

It demonstrates a love more concerned about the other person than being vindicated.  Are you in a place right now, through no fault of your own, where you feel a need to let others know you are blameless?  Let me leave you with this:

“He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” 2 Corinthians 5:21

Love endured...

even to the cross.

  

Forever His,

Anita

Love Hopes All Things (Day Twenty-One)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

We live in a world of uncertainty.  By now I’m sure you have contemplated on more than one occasion what lies ahead for the economic future of our nation as well as your personal concerns.  Will our economy get moving…will I find a job…how will I feed my family…how will I afford the skyrocketing gas prices…who will be our next President? 

Uncertainty.

On and on it goes.  James 4:14 (NASB) tells us, “you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow.”      

Feeling of hopelessness.

Everything will change…that you can count on that.

However, this LOVE does not give up!

It is a love that doesn’t believe in failure, for it knows that God has a habit of taking the world’s classification of failures and producing spiritual giants.  It is a love that hopes an unsaved family member or friend will believe in the Gospel and make that heart transaction to receive Christ as their personal Lord and Savior.  It is a love that prays for forgiveness of sins. 

It is a love that takes God at His word.

No matter what uncertainties plague your mind today, no worries…God is our great hope. 

Psalm 33:22 “Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone.”

Forever His,

Anita

Love Believes All Things (Day Twenty)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

Have you ever heard the saying, "I don't trust her as far as I can throw her?" Because of damage that may have occurred in the past, many of us have established a distrust of people. We are far to quick to suspect them of foul play and judge their character at first glance. Even in court a person is given the benefit of the doubt and seen as "innocent until proven guilty," though some of us treat the ones we love as "guilty until proven innocent."

Throughout my childhood (and even still to this day) my parents have faithfully reiterated that "love believes the best."  Although, I've had my fair share of friendship dilemmas that could easily give me an excuse to be a cynic with my fellow man...those three little words are always ring in my ear. I can't habitually believe that everyone is always going to treat me wrong and that everything is evil. Love sees the good and won't believe bad in another unless the facts prove otherwise.

People do make mistakes...and that's okay. 

We're going to get scrapes and bruises once in awhile, but that shouldn't detour our belief in seeing the good in others. 

Jesus constantly lives out this principal. Some of the most beloved people He has used in mighty ways have been murderers, adulterers, liars, and cheaters. Yet, He saw the best in them and believed in them...just as He believes in you and me. 

Maybe God has placed people in our lives with whom we've had to learn to cautiously love from a distance, but that's where we can either allow those situations to hinder us or move us forward.  

LOVE believes the best not the worst about people. Always err on the side of love.

Love,

Ashley

Love Bears All Things (Day Nineteen)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

In this context "bears" stems from the Greek word stego which by definition means: to keep secret, to hide, conceal, to cover over with silence...by covering to keep off something which threatens, to bear up against, hold out against, and so endure.

Just like ships keep the water out to prevent them from sinking and roofs the rain, in a torrential storm, so does love keep out that which would injure (albeit words, actions, etc.) another.

Out of sincere, loving, and authentic concern for others, love will do what it can to conceal the difficulty and failures to cover the sin.

"Love covers a multitude of sins" 1 Peter 4:8 

John MacArthur puts it this way: "With the Corinthians, they were just waiting to expose somebody. Love dismisses the sins of those in view of its affections. It doesn't pounce on them. It doesn't proclaim them. Love warns, yes; it exhorts; yes; it rebukes, yes; and it covers. Beautiful characteristic and it should be part of all of our lives to live that way."

Another way that it "bears all" is by praying for and encouraging those you love when they are struggling or going through trials because you know it's the right thing to do, whether or not you feel like it. 

Bearing each other's burdens can be quite difficult since it requires sacrifice on our part. Some ways we may experience this is as follows:

Our Time: Love is flexible by taking that phone call in the middle of the night when it's certainly not convenient. 

Emotionally Draining: Love endures even when someone is needy.

Dying to Self: Love places the needs of others before self. You may have to drop everything you had planned for the day, in order to meet up with a friend who is stressed out and just needs a listening ear. 

Sometimes we can become frustrated with people and their personal struggles, but it's in those moments that we need to be reminded of Jesus and the example He demonstrated by "bearing all things." Though the Pharisees were arrogant and always looking for ways to catch Him off guard, He was kind and loved them. Then we get to the ultimate sacrifice when His body was broken and crushed for the sins of the world, He endured. Although the soldiers spat on Him, taunted and mocked Him, still He had compassion and forgave them.

He. Loved. Everyone. 

LOVE (Jesus) didn't expose our filthy weaknesses, He covered our sin. Shouldn't we aspire to do the same for others?

Love,

Ashley

Love Rejoices in Truth (Day Eighteen)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

Have you ever had to deliver a message, though packed with truth, that was unpleasant to the receiver?

I recall several instances in my past where God has used me as that messenger to bring light to reality. One  occurrence was with a very dear friend of mine at the time. We had shared the same passions and desires and I thoroughly enjoyed her company. Though I knew she loved the Lord, during our teenage years she started down a road that had hazard signs all over it. Throwing caution to the wind, she was being led astray by the world and it's tempting proposals. I knew I could do one of two things: 

One: Refuse to confront her on this problem and just hope and pray it would go away.  Why would I risk blowing things out of proportion?

Two: Speak the truth in love. Confront her on this blind spot in her life...knowing full well it would hurt and possibly get messy.

And messy it did. 

After much prayer, one difficult phone call, and a meeting involving both of our parents - I walked away feeling like a wounded soldier who had just stepped off the battlefield. My eyes were swollen from the hours of tears. My heart heavy with grief. I knew at that moment that our friendship was fractured beyond repair. 

Unfortunately, those are never the predicaments we would like to be in. It can be awkward and uncomfortable, but to LOVE is to be honest. 

"Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy," Proverbs 27:6 (NLT) 

Telling lies in order to bring flattery and avoid confrontation is easier, but in the long run it destroys relationships, while telling the truth usually builds strong relationships. Love cares for the truth. Loves the truth. Upholds the truth. Speaks the truth.

Loving people always speak the truth.

Love,
Ashley

Love Does Not Rejoice in Iniquity (Day Seventeen)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

The paparazzi make a living by following celebrities around in order to get a juicy piece of salacious information that will pay big dividends.  The media feeds this to us daily.  Retailers place magazines at the check stand for their customer’s impulse buying.  They know our culture is enamored about the lives and sins of prominent figures. 

 

Let someone hear of another’s blunder and before you know it, gossip is running rampant around your office, or within your circle of friends, or even within your Bible study group.  Of course Christians many times keep the fire chain going for the purpose of “prayer” (wink wink).

The information doesn’t even have to be true, but people find this “news” somewhat satisfying.  In a sort of wacky way it elevates our feelings about ourselves.  In the name of entertainment actors and comedians with their mouths full of profanity and explicit talk will poke fun over other peoples’ sins.  Something we are supposed to hate (iniquity) is the very thing we laugh about.   

Ask yourself this question:  Why would a Christian rejoice over something that offends God?

As Christians, knowing, believing, and following His truth, we should be grieved by the sinful conduct of another.  Instead, we too often join in with the hilarious laughter and explosive conversations.  Why is this?  Perhaps we feel we are above it all.  More righteous.  Or could it be because deep down our flesh has a ravenous appetite for sin?

We live in a culture of tolerance and political acceptance.  However, God doesn’t take pleasure in His people being so accepting of sin…He counts it as rebellion against Himself.  “For the sinful nature is always hostile to God” (Romans 8:7-9 NLT), “But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)”

God wept over Jerusalem’s iniquity (Luke 19:41).  If we are who we say we are shouldn’t we also grieve over sin because it separates us from God?  Try to view this from God’s perspective…He sent His only begotten Son to hang on a cross for ALL of our sins.  I know of no greater LOVE. 

Forever His,

Anita

Love Thinks No Evil - (Day Sixteen)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

The aching that resonated within my chest ran so deep that every nerve seemed to echo the same tattered and damaged song. My heart was overtaken with discomfort as if someone had physically bruised and marred it. To think that I could somehow manage to forgive the individual who had ignited the anguish was questionable...but I said I did.

At least, I said I did.   

Little did they know that I replayed the scenario countless times in my head...each with a different outcome. Every time I recounted the catastrophe my heart became more and more callous. Quickly, I subjected my thoughts to conversations I would have with that person.

Days turned into months and months into years and still the very thought of that person would cause that incident to replay over and over and over again. Still I was being tormented with the thoughts of the past and bitter towards the one who had offended me.

"...[LOVE] keeps no records of wrong." (NIV)

There is a difference between recalling the painful valleys we have walked through in the past and holding things against one another. Painful memories from traumatizing experiences can last for years, but to have the strength to forgive is part of the healing process.

It's in our human nature to keep records of things. We record the spending of our money in our check books or computers, some of us keep a journal to record our thoughts and feelings and we keep record of medical information. Naturally, we would keep a record of the wrongs others have inflicted upon us.

But that's not like Christ and that's not how He loves.

He has been so gracious to blot out our transgressions and throw them into the depths of the sea. He loves us when we are prideful and selfish. He forgives us when we call upon His name and ask to be forgiven. He remembers them no more (Hebrews 8:12).

We need to follow the beautiful example that has been set before us through our precious Savior. One that loves as He does and doesn't think evil towards someone. A loving heart that forgives and lets go. 

Love,
Ashley

Love Is Not Provoked - (Day Fifteen)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

I remember the day she made a sweeping movement with her arm across my desk.  My calendar, my paperclips, my pencils and pens, my documents and papers all went flying off onto the floor. 

She wasn’t happy.

In a fit of anger, over the individual I was speaking with on the other end of the phone, my boss was hostile…so easily provoked. 

The ball was in my court.

What was my next move?

Allowing the love of Christ to radiate and by exercising self-control, by the power of the Holy Spirit, I calmly finished my portion of the phone call and handed the receiver over to her as she grabbed it out of my hand.  Quietly, I picked up the mess moved by the tornado that had moved through my office space only minutes earlier.

Silently, I began to pray. 

This is such a perfect example of one’s perspective being clouded in the moment and allowing a razor-sharp temper to rule.  Surely she wasn’t following Ephesians 4:26 (NLT) that tells us, “don’t sin by letting anger control you.”  

No one is immune to the temptation of being provoked, irritated, or angered.  Although, the Bible allows for righteous anger, I would submit to you that too many people either misunderstand and/or mis­use this as a justification of their own bursts of enrage. 

This type of love doesn’t quickly take offense, no matter if we are tired or have our personal rights taken away.  This love doesn’t easily react out of frustration nor is it resentful.  James 1:19 says we should be slow to anger and continues in verse 20 to say, “For the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God” (NASB).

Below are 4 steps that can help us to minimize our reacting in the flesh:

1.  Pray

Ask for God’s help.  It is important not to suppress, tuck away, or internalize the things that bother us.  By honestly confessing our shortcomings to our Father and soliciting His help we are more apt to let the fire die out.  Journal your thoughts, areas of weakness, and key learnings.

2.  Exercise self-control 

We have the power.  Think about a time where you were involved in an argument with a close family member when all of a sudden the telephone rang.  No doubt you answered it in a happy and jovial manner.  See how easy it was to “turn off” the anger when we want to?

3.  Retrain your mind

The way we think helps determine the way we feel.  Read and apply Romans 12:2.  As we transform our minds, we re-calibrate our thinking to line up more like God.    

           

4.  Associate with like minds

We need to surround ourselves with people who are a positive influence.  Many times I have used the example of a white glove (representing the believer) and the dirt (representing the world).  If we take a white glove and rub it in the dirt there is no way it will remain clean and white.  No, the glove will absorb the dirt and in no way will the dirt absorb the glove.  Bad company corrupts good morals. (1 Corinthians 15:33).     

Replace your anger with His LOVE, peace, and power and you won’t be provoked.

Forever His,

Anita 

Love Does Not Seek It's Own - (Day Fourteen)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

Humble. Meek. Patient. He has the heart of a servant and is relentlessly concerned about the needs of others, constantly putting them before his own. He always gives, expecting nothing in return. He'll be the man holding the door open for everyone who follows after him...even if his party has already been seated. He is content, faithful, and most of all selfless.

That's my dad.

He is and has been the best example to me and the lives of those around him of what it means to clearly demonstrate the words Paul talks about in Philippians 2:3-4 which says:

"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.  Let each of you look out not only for his own interest, but also for the interests of others." (NKJV)

With the corrupt "me centered" culture we live in, that is permeated with entitlements and always looking out for "#1", it should not be a shocker to us when we find this same self-seeking attitude within the walls of the church. Sin is wrapped in self. Our focus is self.  But LOVE...is selfless.

A couple of other translations of 1 Corinthians 13:5 put it this way:

"...it does not demand its own way" (NLT)
"...it is not self-seeking" (NIV)

In rooting ourselves in selfishness, we lose our sense of caring for others and can easily get caught up in narcissistic behavior. Turn on the television and you're able to find an array of sitcoms and reality shows that promote this manner. But, when we're so busy being all about me, myself, and I...that we fall into the trap of what the world recommends by "living in the moment." We cease to read our Bibles, quit going to church, and withdrawal from fellowship. We even stop praying because things aren't going our way and in return our relationship with Him suffers immensely.

We lose our connection with Christ.

When we exhibit an attitude of being others-focused rather than one that is self-focused, we demonstrate the servanthood of Jesus. As Christians, isn't this what we should desire?

Love,
Ashley

Love Does Not Behave Rudely - (Day Thirteen)

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

I am reminded of rude behavior daily as I watch the sparing going on in various Social Media networks.  Somebody posts a benign comment or opinion and individuals jump all over it by posting rude and offensive comments.  Tempers flare and the fight begins.  Disparaging remarks about race and tactics causing division is so unfortunate and prevalent in today’s society. 

This unbecoming behavior being modeled by adults is now being mirrored in our country’s children.  As a child, I remember the social graces instilled in me barred any discourteous comments or conduct toward another grownup.  There was no tolerance for rude manners.

Today is different.  Teachers experience impolite actions of students in their classroom.  Store owners hear the inappropriate speech by kids who want to disrupt their customers.  Public display of disrespect is widespread.  Even on the sitcoms we watch on TV we hear puns made at the expensive of others.  Under the auspice of humor we hear cutting remarks and condescending tones with arguments, by both children and adults, fueling the flame.  This rude conduct has become acceptable.

As Christians, the way we treat people has a direct correlation on how we mirror our Lord.  The love spoken of in this verse reflects and adheres to the principals found in His Word and is demonstrated through our respect and dignity toward others.  God doesn’t want us to dampen the spirits of those around us.  In fact, He forever encourages us to place the needs of others first.       

God is glorified by the way we lead our lives…the more we get to know Christ, the more we allow Christ’s LOVE to flow out of us.  When we are polite and thoughtful it takes the spot light off of ourselves and demonstrates love for those nearby.  When was the last time you let someone behind you in a grocery line go before you?  Do you find yourself so stuck on your own needs that you can’t possibly rearrange your schedule to fit in with another’s?  In your conversations with your friends and family, do you contemplate how you can get “one-up” on them?    

The evidence shown is a direct correlation to our level of faith.  “Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.  A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.  Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.   Therefore by their fruits you will know them” (Matthew 7:17-20 (NKJV).

What kind of fruit is growing on your tree?

Forever His,

Anita 

Love is Not Puffed Up - (Day Twelve)

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails." 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

I have a heart for missions. Whether it be flying half way around the globe, or traveling within the same state, I am always amazed at what God can do in and through me in the time spent away from the "norm". Needless to say I was excited and looking forward to seven days overflowing with adventure in God's wilderness, quiet times with Him, and being used to make an impact in the lives of those I would encounter. To put the cherry on the top I was eager to have a close friend of mine join me on this endeavor. Little did I know the week wouldn't go quite as I had planned.

Have you ever been around someone who constantly makes you feel like you have nothing to offer? Anything you do or say is overlooked as they tend to step on you as they boast about their abilities, their accomplishments, and their knowledge? All the while you are left with a heavy heart and bruises from the punches. 

"While knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church" 1 Corinthians 8:1b (NLT). Knowledge, in itself, is not a bad thing to desire, but like Proverbs 31:26 says, "When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instruction with kindness" (NLT), it's HOW it is given that matters...the heart behind it.

Not unlike the Biblical days of the Pharisees and Sadducees, we are still faced with those that have an inflated estimation of themselves, feeling as though they hold a greater understanding and are above the individuals around them. But love doesn't do that. LOVE accepts people where they're at, it does not exhort itself as one who has far superior knowledge, and it also guards us from having an exaggerated view of our own significance.

If our hearts are so consumed with ourselves, our own happiness, and our well being and we're willing to beat people over the head with our knowledge, then we will have no room for the needs of others. In return we will lose love. It's only by applying God's power of meekness and humility that can we find the antidote to arrogance (or pride).

Love,
Ashley

Love Does Not Parade Itself - (Day Eleven)

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails." 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

Love is not a power grabber, controller, nor is prideful.  Pride is an undesirable attribute.  It is at the very core of Satan’s nature and the reason he was thrown out of Heaven.  However, it is prevalent in our world of self…self-promotion, self-satisfaction, and self-love, after which everyone takes a bow. 

Peter wrote in 1 Peter 5:5-6 (NLT) that “God opposes the proud but favors the humble.  So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.”  Jesus taught and modeled perfect humility.  He is our ultimate example of humility in its perfect form.   

It is only by way of a humble mind that we will see and understand that our achievements and worth come from God’s love for us through the grace of His Son.  All have sinned and all we have is from God.  In no way can we (or should we!) take personal credit for His eternal blessings; something the world can’t produce. 

We can’t expect God to use us to reach the unsaved with a condescending attitude.  There is no room for us as Christians to determine to look good, impress, or lord over others.  Christ said in Luke 14:11 that everyone who exalts themselves will be humbled. 

A humble LOVE is courteous and willing to admit to one’s deficiencies, faults and sins, and considers others first.    

Forever His,

Anita

For further study, you may want to check out these Scriptures on humility and pride:

Proverbs 3:33,34, Proverbs 11:2, 15:25, 16:18, 16:5, 18:12, and 22:4, Isaiah 57:15, 1 Peter 5:6, and James 4:6. 

Love Does Not Envy - (Day Ten)

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails." 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

Most of us have experienced it at some point in our lives. The green-eyed monster that lurks around waiting to destroy our relationships and cause bitterness to fester inside our hearts. Maybe you have struggled with it and can easily recall that one girl in high school who was the prettiest, smartest, and had all the boys fighting for her attention. Maybe you're the last single young woman amongst your group of friends who are happily married and adding to their offspring every year. Then again, maybe your co-worker just got promoted to a position with better pay, benefits, and responsibilities. A position you thought should of been yours.

"Love does not envy..."

Strong's concordance describes envy as "a strong feeling that sours, due to the influence of sin."  It is to be distinguished with the word "jealousy" because they are not used interchangeably. Jealousy, in its proper perspective, can yield a commendable faithfulness to what is pure and holy. Think of the jealous love of God for His people found in Exodus 34:14,"You must worship no other gods, for the LORD, whose very name is Jealous, is a God who is jealous about His relationship with you" (NLT). Envy, on the other hand, is always an unpleasant word that indicates "ill-will" or "malice." It's what leads someone to harbor resentment, rivalry, or strife towards another because of their fortune or prosperity.

Envy and love cannot exist in the same heart. In order to be free of this sin, that so easily entangles us, we must commit it to prayer. It's only by the power of the Holy Spirit, dwelling within us, that we can overcome our carnal hearts and return loving kindness to others. When we have a heart influenced by love, we can rejoice in the success and talents of those around us. LOVE does not envy the happiness of others.

Love,
Ashley

Love is Kind - (Day Nine)

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails." 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

While exercising patience we are in essence showing kindness.  In rendering this part of love, we freely accept one another and look for their good.  Regardless of who they are or what they have said or done to us, we search for ways to heal.

Unfortunately, this act is not perpetuated in our country much anymore.  Daily we see the effects of people who have become far too sensitive.  Just look at your Facebook wall…everyone chimes in on postings and people are too eager to critique somebody’s point of view.  If someone disagrees watch out!  Here come more offensive postings from those who appear to be too uptight about another’s opinion.

I remember telling my women’s Bible study group that we need to just “shake it off” and let things go…let them roll off our back, sort of speak.  Nowadays, people have to make a big stink about the smallest of comments and stir the pot.  Just watch a few minutes of television as we near the presidential election.  We have become a litigious society – far from the days I remember growing up as a kid when my mother would spend time conversing with our neighbor over the backyard fence.  No, sadly, people today have to air the dirty laundry in public and fight the smallest of offenses out in court.     

According to Spiros Zodhiates’ work, The Complete Word Study Dictionary, kindness in the Greek is Chrestotes (khray-stot'-ace) and means benignity or usefulness.  It is descriptive of ones disposition.  The beauty that permeates the entire character, softening all that would be callous and harsh.  Although, not gushy, when necessary it can be tough.  In this context, it may say “no” to a spoiled child, tell an addict to get treatment, or report a crime committed by a relative.

LOVE is kind…delivers what heals and denies what can be harmful.

  

Forever His,

Anita

Love is Patient - (Day Eight)

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails." 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

Throughout the next few blog posts we will be diving in and taking a closer look at what has become known as the "love" chapter in the Bible. In 1 Corinthians 13 we can clearly see God's demonstration of love and how it is to be lived out. Like previously mentioned, love is an action and not an emotion.

"Love suffers long..."

Longsuffering (patience) reveals our faith in God's timing, omnipotence, and love. It doesn't lose it's temper easily. If we have God's love in us we will be longsuffering with the people in our lives who hurt and annoy us.

With the holidays just around the corner, maybe you will be faced with that one family member who is constantly nagging, gripping, and is hard to please. Sometimes you feel as though you can't do anything right and you're met with opposition despite your best efforts. This word Paul is referring to is one that calls us to have patience with people rather than with circumstances.

In his commentary on 1 Corinthians 13:4, Matthew Henry says of the term longsuffering: "It can endure evil, injury, and provocation, without being filled with resentment, indignation, or revenge. It makes the mind firm, gives it power over the angry passions, and furnishes it with a persevering patience, that shall rather wait and wish for the reformation of a brother than fly out in resentment of his conduct. It will put up with many slights and neglects from the person it loves, and wait long to see the kindly effects of such patience on him."

It is to no surprise that one of the attributes used to describe the Lord is longsuffering (Exodus 34:6, Numbers 14:8, Psalm 86:15, and 2 Peter 3:9). The more we mature and grow in our walk with God, the more we are able to share his heart for others and patiently LOVE them regardless of their shortcomings...for we have faults as well.

Longsuffering...it's a kind of love that survives and stand the test of time.

Love,
Ashley

His Love For Us Overflows - (Day Seven)

While looking at our portion of Scripture today, we find an important truth.  God chose us before the foundation of the world and our salvation is because of what He has already done for us.

I am sure some of you can remember times, while as a child, engaging in kick ball or baseball.  Two kids were selected to be the captains and given the opportunity to alternately pick the remaining members of their team.  It never failed that the most athletic were selected first.  Rejoice!  Jesus doesn’t choose based on any of our qualifications.  His choice was because of what was done on the cross and before creation…before we had the chance to behave good or evil. 

We don’t deserve, nor can we take credit, being chosen by Him because we know from Scripture that “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him” John 6:44 (NKJV).  This was not a random act on God’s part.  It wasn’t like our emotional decisions, so full of sentimental value or conditional, with strings attached, in order to provide some hidden benefit. 

No matter how we respond, His love for us continues to overflow.  Regardless of whether we accept His LOVE or reject it, our decision has no bearing on His feelings for us.  We benefit as a by-product from Him being a holy and just God who wants to bring glory to Himself by unconditionally loving us. 

Aren’t you grateful for His never ending love?

  

“Just as He chose us in Him before

the foundation of the world,

that we should be holy and without

blame before Him in love.”

Ephesians 1:4 (NKJV)

Forever His, 

Anita

The Greatest Gift - (Day Six)

"For God so loved the world that He gave 

His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him 

should not perish but have everlasting life." 

John 3:16 (NKJV)

Love is a word of action. It proves itself by what it does and it requires sacrifice. Through Christ's pure and holy love on an impure and unholy world, He GAVE His only Son. By the gift of His Son, God gives us Himself. Do you realize the magnitude of this gift?! If you have the gift of His Son, you have all you need. All the love we desire can be found at the cross, nothing can compare!

The only thing you can do when someone gives you a gift is take it or reject it. I don't know about you, but I've never turned down a birthday gift that someone is generously offering! Through the selfless sacrifice of Jesus we can now share in the eternal gift of salvation. Once our lives were leading to destruction and death and now we have abundant life. Through this scripture we can see that:

He loved us while He is greater than us.
He loved us while we are still sinners.
His love is not selfish.
His love is open for everyone.
His LOVE saves.
His love is the greatest love.

When you have been freely given the most wonderful and precious gift motivated by the most perfect Love, why wouldn't you accept it?

Love,
Ashley

Treasure Chest - (Day Five)

In our Scripture yesterday, Jesus told us that we can’t serve two masters.  Surely He knows our tendency to focus our lives around the lures of the world.  How easy it is for us to forget the reason we were created…for His pleasure.

Anyone who has turned on their television set recently can attest to the uncertainty of our nation.  Worry and fear are squeezing us from both sides.  In many instances, people turn to drugs and alcohol to disable their burdens.  They discover that they may be numb for a while, but the pain returns and now they have more problems to deal with.

I remember when people were storing up during a time of worry and uncertainty before “Y2K.”  Being prepared is one thing, but focusing on what “could” happen is not where the Lord wants us.  This “what-if” scenario took our eyes off of God’s hope and power and placed them on fear.  No doubt, this is right where the enemy wants us. 

There was a time in my life when materialism was my god.  My endless search only took me from store to store because of my constant love for “things.”  When the new became old, my quest didn’t miss a beat.  It wasn’t until I took a good look into my treasure chest and realized that my love for material goods was indeed my treasure. 

So, what is in your treasure chest?  What are the things that you value and hold near and dear to your heart?  Perhaps your job, car, or reputation is deemed your most prized and loved possession.  While it isn’t a bad thing to have worldly goods, too often we come to love these belongings so much they begin to own us! 

Our focus needs to be off of those things that will rot and be destroyed and on the eternal…our first LOVE, JESUS!    

“For where your treasure is, 

there your heart will be also.”

Matthew 6:21 (NKJV)

Forever His,

Anita

Make Him Your First Love - (Day Four)

Although our scripture is easy to understand, it is hard for us to put it into practice.  “No one can serve two masters.”  The word “master” used here is kurios in the Greek which translates as “lord”…the same word used when we call Him our Lord God.  The word “serve” in this verse translates into a slave relationship and slaves during this culture served one master full time.  This passage of Scripture is in telling us that we can’t serve both God and any other lord over our life. 

Jesus requires total allegiance.  He is very upfront with us and expects us to make the right choices.  Of course we need to work for our paychecks in order to provide for our basic needs.  That is a given.  However, we need to look beyond these necessities and take inventory of how we spend our time, our talent, and our treasure. 

By keeping track of our budgets we can easily detail our expenses and see if we are spending more money on our daily lattes than our offerings to the Lord.  Our bank statements reveal if we are eating out more than we are giving to our church missionaries. 

Where do you spend your time?  Check your television’s DVR to see how many hours you are recording of your favorite shows.  Is this time outweighing your Bible reading?  How would you gage your church attendance?  Do you only attend on Sunday when you don’t have a brunch invite or weekend getaway?

The above isn’t bad in and of itself.  I challenge you to take stock of your life and see how you stack up. Remember, the rub comes when we allow them to overtake our LOVE for the Lord.     

“No one can serve two masters;

for either he will hate the one and love the other,

or he will be devoted to one and despise the other.

You cannot serve God and wealth.”

Matthew 6:24 (NKJV)

Forever His,

Anita

Four Types of Love - (Day Three)

Throughout time, the definition of love has manifested itself into varies forms within our culture. The same form we use to express our love for another human is the same meaning we use to describe the deep love we possess for our animals and a shopping trip to the local mall. The Greeks paid more attention to detail since they had 4 specific words to describe love. They are as follows:

Eros; The Greek word for sensual love. It's the physical, sensual love between husband and wife within the bond of marriage. This term does not appear in the Bible, but is portrayed in the Old Testament book, Song of Solomon.

Storge; This Greek word for family love (bonds among mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers) is also not found in Scripture, although many examples of this type family love can be found throughout the Bible.

Phileo; The Greek word for brotherly love means friendship, and is the type of love in Scripture that most Christians practice towards one another. As Christians, we are commanded to love our fellow brothers and sisters.

Agape; The highest of the four types of LOVE, Agape love, is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. It is not based on emotion at all. It is an act of the will. This love perfectly describes Jesus Christ's divine love to His Father and all humanity. Agape love tends to present a challenge to us as believers. There will always be that certain individual who makes it hard for us to "love." And yet the Lord is clear on His commandant when He calls us to love one another. A good example of this is in John 21:15-17 where Jesus asks Peter three times if he "Agape" loves Him, to which Peter replies each time that he "Phileo" loves Him. Although Jesus was asking Peter for unconditional love, knowing himself, Peter knew he could only offer brotherly love. While Christ would like for us to strive for Agape love, sometimes all we can offer is Phileo.

"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God;
and everyone who loves is born of God
and knows God." 1 John 4:7 (NKJV)

Love,
Ashley

God is Love - (Day Two)

Yesterday we discovered that society’s definition of love is tied to our emotions and can be superficial.  Too often, when we say we love someone, it is based on our attraction to them and how they make us feel.  Conditional.  Our love fulfills a need in us before we can love others.  Perhaps you or someone you know have said things like, “I love him because... ‘He’s cute,’ or ‘He’s a lot of fun,’ or ‘He really cares about me.’” 

Watch out!  Our love for others is also unpredictable.  Just visit a Family Court session on any given day and you will see couples, who once loved each other, in the fight of a lifetime.  Through various circumstances they have “fallen out of love.”  No longer do they “feel” love for one another.  Their marriage vows, unfortunately, only lasted a season.

But, wait!  There is a bigger love than this one.  A love that isn’t based on warm and fuzzy feelings.  A love that no one can change no matter how good or bad they are.  This is a love that is unconditional and never fails.  God’s love…1 John 4:8

“God is LOVE.”   

“Beloved, let us love one another,

for love is from God;

and everyone who loves is

born of God and knows God.

⁸The one who does not love

does not know God, for God is love.

⁹By this the love of God was manifested in us,

 that God has sent His only begotten Son

into the world so that we might live through Him.

¹⁰In this is love, not that we loved God,

but that He loved us and sent His Son

to be the propitiation for our sins.

¹¹Beloved, if God so loved us,

we also ought to love one another.”

1 John 4:7-11 (NASB)

Forever His,

Anita