How difficult it is for some of us, who are in Christ, to walk in love. To live the life that we long to live, full of blessings toward our neighbors, returning goodness for evil, kindness for meanness, love for hate. We would love to be just like Jesus, if only this flesh of ours would stay out of the way. But as difficult as it may be, we must continue to strive to walk in love, at all times, regardless of the struggle. We are commanded by Christ to do so, to love our neighbors.

Many relationships develop an "insult for insult", "evil for evil" pattern of interaction. How many marriages have suffered from failure because neither party was willing to give? How many fights have escalated even to the point of murder because evil was given for evil? Our flesh commands that we return the offense, to get even with that person who wronged you so. How many arguments could have been nipped in the bud, if just one party involved chose to humbly walk in love and return blessing for hurt? How many marriages would have been saved? How many wars would have never been fought? Jesus showed us how much better life could be, if we would just give a little, if we would just let go of our sinful pride and walk in love. Are we going to obey the commands of our flesh, or, are we going to obey the commands of our Lord?

Peter noted that to achieve intimacy, both parties must cultivate Christ’s pattern of giving a blessing when experiencing hurt or unjust treatment. Remember Christ’s words on the Cross: "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do". To respond this way, in love, is distinctively characteristic of the Christian ethic.

Peter gives three reasons why we should respond this way, though unusual for our flesh, but not unusual for our spiritual selves. First the one who gives a blessing will receive a blessing in return. Second, when we respond positively and lovingly, it produces an attitude of enjoyment and love of life. Thirdly, God hears the prayers of those who follow this pattern and turns His face against those who do not. ("but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.")

Seeking peace and pursuing a life of love by disciplining one’s tongue and actions has many practical rewards and is wise in all relationships. We must always remember who we are in Christ, and follow His example.

The Holy Spirit is continually doing " a good work in us" and will continue that work until the day of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Gradually we are being molded and shaped into the image of Christ, and if you allow Him, He will make you a better person tomorrow than you are today. Just as you are a better person today than you were yesterday. Be encouraged and continually thank and praise our Father in heaven for doing such miraculous things in your life. If you don’t believe you are a miracle, remember back to the person you were before you invited Christ to come in.

"Father God, bless those people whom I come into contact with today and use me to be the beacon of Your light, wherever I might travel. Help me to always walk in love, in all of my relationships, and reflect Your face to those I see and interact with. Help me to always remember, that as a Christian, I represent You to all I meet. Help me to honor You always in how I treat my fellow man. Thank You Father, for helping me to mature in Christ. In Jesus�?Name I pray, Amen."

Love in Christ, Rev. Michael <:)))><

Copyright ©2005 Michael Sparr