“The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. ABOVE ALL, LOVE EACH OTHER DEEPLY, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Pet. 4:7-8) [We must be very Christ likeminded in these last days, serious, steady and committed to obedience; and observe strict restraint and clear-headedness in the use of worldly enjoyments; we must not allow ourselves to be caught up in our former sins and temptations. We must watch and pray as never before, and take care to be continually in a calm sober disposition, always ready for prayer; and be frequent in prayers, so this end will not come upon us unawares! Peter says that most importantly –ABOVE ALL- we must love: ‘agape’ (Godly love, love of devotion, unconditional love) one another deeply. Love will not ‘cover over’ sin, but will cover the one committing the sin so they will repent!] “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one WHO SPEAKS THE VERY WORDS OF GOD. If anyone serves, they should do so WITH THE STRENGTH GOD PROVIDES, so that in all things GOD MAY BE PRAISED THROUGH JESUS CHRIST. To him be the GLORY AND THE POWER for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Pet. 4:10-11) [How essential it is for us to be ‘others’ minded, because that is a sure sign of the mind of Christ is at work!] “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but DO NOT HAVE LOVE, I AM NOTHING.” (1 Corin. 13:2) [This is ‘agape’ love again, remember, this is not something we can ‘work up’, this love comes from God and is operated by the Holy Spirit –IN US-!] “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. IT ALWAYS PROTECTS, ALWAYS TRUSTS, ALWAYS HOPES, ALWAYS PERSEVERES.” (1 Corin. 13:4-7) [This should be our prayer “Abba Father, activate this divine love in me so I may be about your business with the attitude and dedication that will please you!” Remember:] “LOVE NEVER FAILS…” (1 Corin. 13:8)
Be blessed as you praise The Lord, knowing that GOD’S LOVE WORKING IN US ALWAYS PROTECTS, ALWAYS TRUSTS, ALWAYS HOPES AND ALWAYS PERSEVERES; LOVE NEVER FAILS!
-Bill Stockham