The love of every one of you for one another is increasing.
2 Thessalonians 1:3
The Thessalonian Christians became known for their faith in God and their love for one another. Paul, the church’s founder, says to them, “we … give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.”
Clearly, the love of Christ was shining through these early believers. Haven’t you noticed the same, in those whose walk with Christ is a close one? Christians shouldn’t put on “airs”; however, Christ’s love, abiding in the hearts of his people, can be observed by others.
Beatrice Clelland (1912-1997) was acquainted with this kind of Christian when she penned these words:
Not merely in the words you say,
Not only in the deeds confessed,
But in the most unconscious way,
Is Christ expressed.
Is it a beatific smile,
A holy light upon the brow?
Oh no, I felt His presence while
You laughed just now.
For me, ‘twas not the truth you taught,
To you so clear to me so dim,
But when you came to me you brought
A sense of Him.
And from your life He beckons me,
And from your heart His love is shed,
Till I lose sight of you and see
The Christ instead.*
Pray often that your love for Christ and his people would increase. A love-filled person is winsome and magnetic. Pray that God’s love will flow through you without obstruction.
*“Indwelt” by Beatrice Clelland.
Taken from . . .
Renewed by the Spirit: 365 Daily Meditations
by Ralph I. Tilley
copyright © 2016 Ralph I. Tilley
(May be copied for noncommercial purposes,
not to exceed 500 copies.)
