Gospel Growth

Wednesday, Jan 11

TODAY’S READING: 1 Corinthians 13

DEVOTIONAL: “GROWING IN LOVE"
by Ed Pavelec, Elder

In our modern world, it seems like the definition of words is fluid. This is why it is important to draw meaning from Scripture. Today’s topic is “Growing in Love.” Rather than let our culture define this concept for us, I want to let today’s reading of 1 Corinthians 13 guide us.

As you read today’s reading, how did you see love defined? Hopefully it stuck out to you that God has given us quite a list to work with (patient, kind, not boastful, etc.). But our goal today isn’t to just define love, but to figure out: what is it then to Grow in Love?

Take a moment to look at the list of what Love does positively and what Love prohibits negatively. Notice it does not seem to be a list of ways to feel, but a list of ways to act! These spiritual actions have a direction. These ways to love have a purpose. Like the physical body our Lord has given you needs training to be in shape, your ability to love needs to be an action you practice in order to grow.

Let’s take then the target of these action steps, first regarding our brothers and sisters in Christ, then to the world broadly, moving outward from small to big. When we see those in need around us, we put love into action when we meet them, feed them, and serve them, as we might/would do unto Christ Himself (Matthew 25:40).

It is in the practice of “bearing one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2) that our sense of Love is refined, directed, sharpened, and grown. First Corinthians 13 starts with some really impressive spiritual gifts, but brings a contrast to our attention. If all of this great ministry, this wonderful service, these impressive gifts we do are performed in a loveless, self-serving way, our action is nothing. It is of no use to ourselves, and of no use to our Lord.

Look to honor God, in Love, through the truth of what Scripture reveals about how to Love. It is through these actions that we will grow in love.

PRAYER:
Father, help me know what good works you have laid before me, and help me do them with love. Please guide me and shape my way so that Love, the supreme ethic, would be what governs me, defines me, and comes through me. Amen

Feel free to open your Notes app to write down a thought or two from today's reading or write out your own prayer.

IF YOU HAVE MORE TIME:
Into what routine action could you incorporate a loving attitude?
Who has God put in your life to whom you can show love that perhaps you have not previously actively loved?
How might you meet the needs around you with loving action?
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