Thursday, December 8

1 Corinthians 13:4-7, 13

Sarah Eller

Human beings are not loving by nature.  We think of ourselves - what we need - what we want.  The needs and wants of others are not our concern.  We look out for #1, regardless.  We don’t use good manners or suitable morals.  We don’t treat our fellow man with respect.  BUT – WAIT.

That is not what we read in the Bible.  That is not the way Jesus taught us to behave.  What was it that He said – treat others the way you want to be treated and love your neighbor as yourself.

This is from the MESSAGE BIBLE: 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7, 13

“Love never gives up.  Love cares more for others than for self.  Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have.  Love doesn’t strut.  Doesn’t have a swollen head, doesn’t force itself on others.  Isn’t always “me first”.  Doesn’t fly off the handle.  Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others.  Doesn’t revel when others grovel.  Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth.  Puts up with anything.  Trusts God always.  Always looks for the best.  Never looks back, but keep going to the end.”

OK - OK - He does have to keep reminding us - we are slow learners - we revert to our true nature too easily.

LOVE - GOD’S LOVE - He sent His only son to live among His people - Jesus showed His people how to love one another.

COME ON - GET WITH IT - CHRISTMAS is that time of year when we have the best opportunity to show the world what we have learned from God - our love for one another!

Prayer: Savior, keep reminding us daily that we must follow Your path and love one another as You love us.  May we find many ways to show that love to our fellow man so they too will come to worship the babe born on Christmas morn along with us.  Amen.