It truly takes courage to love as commanded and instructed in the bible.
I was reading the letters to the churches in Revelation chapter 2 recently. It’s interesting to see that what our Lord requires of the church on a whole can be summed up in these verses:
“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” [1 Corinthians 16:13-14]
I’m seeing now how verse 14 seasons 13. That is, love for our Lord motivates our watching. Standing firm in the faith requires love for His ways. And, it takes courage to love, but His love strengthens us to do that well. He enables and empowers us through His Spirit.
God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
2 Timothy 1:7
Maybe it’s not more patience we need, not more peace or joy, but more love? Perhaps to be kind and gentle, growing in faithfulness and goodness, what we need most is His sustaining love?
So then, I say – fill me with Your love, O Lord. Make me more spirit than flesh. Fill me to overflowing, like the widow’s jar, so that I may continually pour out.
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Be encouraged
🎶 I Belong to Jesus ~ The McClures
When I feel the fear come, I won’t run away
Even in valleys, Your presence is enough
When I feel the shaking, oh, I will stand my ground
Your presence is enough
You are with me
Father, You’re for me
I’m never alone
I’m never abandoned
Oh, fear you’ll never conquer me
‘Cause I belong to Jesus
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
