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A Word of Encouragement |
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January 10, 2026 |
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Our Wedding - Sept 1978 |
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Grace, Hope & Peace, Friend; After emphasizing the importance of knowing our spiritual gifts, and using them to benefit the whole body of Christ - the church, - Paul wrote,
"A far better way" to serve our brothers and sisters than the spiritual gifts God has given us? He begins chapter 13 saying, "If I have all the spiritual gifts and use them perfectly, if I don't have love, I am just a noisy, worthless person that does myself no good, without benefiting others." (1 Corinthians 13:1-3) That is a strong statement. Especially when you think of some of the more flamboyant gifts, like preaching, teaching, healing. Loving someone is 'better' than teaching them about Jesus! But Jesus told us to preach the gospel - the good news - to all creation. (Mark 15:15) and to teach them to obey His commands. (Matthew 28:20) How is loving them 'better' than that? He also told us to love one another like He loves us, and our love for others shows them His love. (John 13:34-35) How did Jesus love us? Before He began His earthly ministry, He came to die for us! (John 3:16) There is no greater love than that! (John 15:13) Notice Paul did not say, "love replaces spiritual gifts." He said to earnestly desire them. But without love, the gifts mean nothing. People can tell if you genuinely love them and will be more inclined to listen to you. Elohim Ha'Ahavat Olam - God of Everlasting Love - Help me love like You love me.
Love like Jesus loves you, |
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