Relate In Love
Be tolerant with one another and forgive one another whenever any of you has a complaint against someone else. You must forgive one another just as the Lord has forgiven you (Colossians 3:13 GNB). In today’s world, winds of intolerance are blowing strongly. It’s common to find those who can’t control their temper.
Little things infuriate them and make them exhibit such anger that’s unbecoming of Christians. They’d make such comments as, “I can’t stand that brother or sister.” You could even hear their persistent complaints and whining about the Church premises: “I can’t stand this place; it’s just somehow; I don’t think I’ll keep coming to this Church.” They have people, places, and things they can’t tolerate. Don’t be that way!
But think about it: The Bible says, “By his (God’s) spirit he hath garnished the heavens…” (Job 26:13). The Holy Spirit created the whole world and beautified the Heavens, yet He’s so humble and so gracious to come live in you. In all His greatness and magnificence, He considers you qualified to be His house, His living tabernacle. In spite of your imperfections and idiosyncrasies, He still loves you. Why then should you, for whatever reason, say you can’t stand someone else? Why should you resent or find anyone repulsive?
If the Holy Ghost could come to live in you, then be humble. Emulate Him, for the Bible says, “Be ye, therefore, followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us…” (Ephesians 5:1-2). Let Him be your focus. If you love Jesus, it’ll show in your relationship with others.
Our theme verse says, “Be tolerant with one another….” Be humble to accommodate and tolerate your brothers and sisters in Christ. The Bible says no one should “…think of himself more highly than he ought to think…” (Romans 12:3). God expects you to think highly of yourself, but you’re not to exalt yourself above others.
If you found yourself exhibiting traits of resentment and intolerance, consciously re-culture yourself with the Word. Be sure to only give vent to the love of God in your life.
CONFESSION
With all humility, gentleness, and patience, I relate with others graciously, lavishly expressing God’s love to my world. I’m accommodative and kind towards others, giving allowance for their shortcomings and imperfections, because the love of God is shed abroad in my heart by the Holy Ghost.
FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 4:2 GNB; 1 Peter 4:8 NIV; 1 Thessalonians 4:9
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
1 Corinthians 14 & Proverbs 3-4
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Luke 19:41-48 & 1 Samuel 18
