Are You Up For The Love Challenge?

"Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;" I Corinthians 13:5

For a child of God, true brotherly love does not behave in an unsuitable or inappropriate manner.  But it seeks to conform to the will and nature of God.  It does not seek to take care of "me first" or to demand that its own desires be taken care of first.  But it seeks to reach out to and help others first.  It is not easily irritated or angered.  But, calmly and with a patience spirit handles situations with godly brotherly love.  It does not get into a mode of thinking, feeling or acting in a way that is ungodly.  But, strives to to follow Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things".

Having a godly love is more than just saying those three little words.  It takes a transformation of the way we think, feel and act.  It takes a willingness to change the thoughts, feelings and actions in our heart that do not line up with the Word of God.  It takes courage to follow through and make a difference in the lives around us.  1 John 4:20 says, " If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?".  That is some pretty strong words there.  But the opposite of love is hate.  If we are not showing brotherly love, we must be showing the opposite of that.  Showing true genuine brotherly love to one another is a very important part or our walk with God.  If we profess to be a Christian, then we profess to believe in the teachings of Jesus.  If we believe those teaching, then we will follow them.  Love is an important part of that teaching.  Jesus said to love one another AS I HAVE LOVED YOU.  His love for us is unconditional.  Then, our love should be unconditional also.  Anyone up for the challenge?  Think about, what you could do today to be Jesus to someone you work with, see in the store or pass on the street?  If we begin to set out to make a difference in someone's life every day, just think of the impact we could make for Him!  ...Setting aside our own thoughts and problems and show love to those around us.  That is what it is all about...true brotherly love...being Jesus to those we see from day to day!