15/12/2017
*LIVE A LIFE FULL OF LOVE*
“Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.”- Ephesians 5:2, NLT.
Stephen was being stoned to death, yet, in that state, he prayed to God to forgive those stoning him. What a heart! Acts 7:59-60 (NIV) ~ “While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep (died).”
Jesus also prayed a similar prayer when He was being nailed to the cross. He said in Luke 23:34 (NIV) ~ "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing...” If we are indeed God's children, we must have His trait of love in us. Loving others is a command from God and not a choice.
In answering a question about the greatest commandment, Jesus said: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these” (Luke 10:27). The enemy’s desire is to see you live in bitterness so that your blessings will be hindered. Bitterness is self-imprisonment and a killer of joy.
If you refuse to dwell or feed on what others have done to you, the pain and bitterness will eventually go away. Let us be like Stephen, focus on the love of God rather than the hatred of men. Allow God to fill you with His love so that you can live above offense. Make your heart light by walking in love and forgiveness.
Prayer for Today:
Father, fill me with your love.
